Moebius-Poland Syndrome: A Case Report from West Africa

Background: Moebius syndrome is a rare, nonprogressive, neurological congenital defect characterised by unilateral or bilateral congenital 7th and 6th cranial nerve paralysis and, less commonly, abnormalities of other cranial nerves (CN) III, IV, and IX？XII. It is frequently characterised by a lack of facial expressions, inability to make facial mimics, speech disorders, paralysis of the oculomotor nerve, eyelid ptosis, strabismus, swallowing and chewing disturbances, and tongue muscle atrophy. Poland syndrome presents with chest wall aplasia and ipsilateral upper extremity anomalies. This syndrome is characterised by hypoplasia of the forearm or breast, rib cage deformities, bilateral epicanthus and talipes equinovarus, and agenesis of the nipple. The management of Moebius-Poland syndrome is through a multidisciplinary supportive approach aimed at addressing the various symptoms associated with the condition. Aim: This report examines the clinical presentation of the case and includes a literature review on the incidence, diagnosis, associated features, and management of Moebius-Poland syndrome. Case Report: A male child of 16 years presented to us for the first time with a lack of facial expression, which was first noticed at 12 years of age. There were delayed developmental milestones, but the child is doing well academically. A lack of facial expression is notable, with the mouth open constantly and occasional drooling. Abnormalities in cranial nerves VI, VII, and XII were also noticed. Conclusion: Moebius and Poland syndrome can occur as separate syndromes or together. Poland features may be present in a patient with Moebius syndrome with very subtle signs, which can be missed without a thorough evaluation and knowledge of the possible co-existence of both syndromes. The overlap of these syndromes highlights their complexity and the need for thorough evaluation and multidisciplinary management.