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Marcus gunn syndrome
Marcus gunn syndrome is when someone has one slightly droopy eyelid. The eyelid will go up when they open their jaw or move their jaw side to side. It's usually seen when smiling, chewing or sucking. Marcus gunn syndrome is also known as jaw winking syndrome.
If the droopy eyelid covers the pupil, it can reduce the vision in the eye. This is because the eyelid will be blocking what they can see. As your child grows older, they may avoid chewing on the affected side so the 'winking' is less obvious.
Causes of marcus gunn syndrome
Marcus gunn syndrome is caused by a nerve. This nerve is sending messages to the eyelid and the jaw at the same time, which is not how the nerve usually works. This means that when the jaw moves, the eyelid moves too.
Marcus gunn syndrome can be an inherited condition. This means it can show up in families. It develops before birth. Babies born with droopy eyelids are 5% likely to have marcus gunn syndrome.
Treatment of marcus gunn syndrome
Children with marcus gunn syndrome will need regular orthoptic check-ups. This is to make sure that they have good vision in both eyes. If the orthoptist finds a reduction in vision in your child's eyes, they will recommend glasses and using eye patches.
If your child's droopy eyelid is affecting their vision, they can have an operation to lift their eyelid. Sometimes this surgery will involve an operation on both eyelids so that they look similar.
Last reviewed: 1 November, 2024
