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Case Reports
. 2025 Aug 18:18:1053-1056.
doi: 10.2147/IMCRJ.S520496. eCollection 2025.

Marcus-Gunn Jaw-Winking Phenomenon: A Case Report on Rare Oculofacial Synkinesis

Amjad Fiusal H Alharthe  1 , Hagar Mohammad Alghreeb  2 , Hani B ALBalawi  1 , Naif M ALAli  1
Affiliations
Case Reports

Marcus-Gunn Jaw-Winking Phenomenon: A Case Report on Rare Oculofacial Synkinesis

Amjad Fiusal H Alharthe et al. Int Med Case Rep J. .

Abstract

The Marcus-Gunn jaw-winking phenomenon (MGJWP) is an uncommon congenital oculofacial synkinesis resulting from abnormal innervation between the fifth cranial nerve (trigeminal, CN V) and the third cranial nerve (oculomotor, CN III). This case report presents a 5-month-old girl with characteristic left eyelid elevation during suckling movements, highlighting the importance of clinical observation in early diagnosis. The condition was confirmed based on clinical findings, with no associated neurological or structural abnormalities. Management involved observation and follow-up to monitor potential complications such as strabismus or anisometropia. MGJWP remains an essential consideration in cases of unusual eyelid movement, emphasizing the role of multidisciplinary consultation for comprehensive care.

Keywords: Marcus-Gunn jaw-winking phenomenon; congenital synkinesis; eyelid movement; oculomotor nerve; trigeminal nerve.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Showing involuntary movement of left eyelid while sucking.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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