Dental News - Many with facial paralysis are socially adjusted

Fred Michmershuizen, DTA

Thu. 2 September 2010

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A recent study reported in The Cleft Palate–Craniofacial Journal, the publication of the American Cleft Palate–Craniofacial Association, quantitatively examined social competence, anxiety and depression associated with Moebius syndrome, a rare congenital condition causing facial paralysis. The condition can rob people of the ability to smile, frown or even raise an eyebrow.

However, contrary to previous studies, it does not appear to increase anxiety and depression or lower a person’s satisfaction with life.

Thirty-seven adults with Moebius syndrome and an equal number of subjects in a gender-matched control group participated in the study, which is described in the article Living With Moebius Syndrome: Adjustment, Social Competence, and Satisfaction With Life.

Moebius syndrome is a nonprogressive disease that occurs early in prenatal life. It is typically characterized by complete bilateral facial paralysis, but also can include limb or hand malformations and hypoglossia — weakness or malformation of the tongue. Speech difficulties, which can be mostly resolved with therapy, are also frequently part of this condition. The cause of Moebius syndrome is unknown.

“Many people with the condition live professionally and personally successful lives,” the article states.

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