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{{Infobox_Disease |
== Overview ==
  Name          = Meige's syndrome |
  Image          = |
  Caption        = |
  DiseasesDB    = 31428 |
  ICD10          = {{ICD10|G|24|4|g|20}} |
  ICD9          = {{ICD9|333.82}} |
  ICDO          = |
  OMIM          = |
  MedlinePlus    = |
  eMedicineSubj  = |
  eMedicineTopic = |
  MeshID        = D008538 |
}}
{{SI}}
 
 
 
:''Not to be confused with [[Meigs syndrome]]''
:''Not to be confused with [[Meigs syndrome]]''
Dystonia is a neurological disorder that causes involuntary movements of muscles due to a disturbance in the brain's neural network. Meige's syndrome is a type of facial distonia. It is also known as Brueghel Syndrome; however this term is more often used for the condition of oromandibular distonia only in the absence of blepharospasm. Meige's syndrome affects the muscles in the tongue, eyes, jaw, pharynx, and neck. It is also referred to as blepharospasm, oromandibular, platysma, and cervical dystonia, respectively<ref name="pmid28017205">{{cite journal| author=Pandey S, Sharma S| title=Meige's syndrome: History, epidemiology, clinical features, pathogenesis and treatment. | journal=J Neurol Sci | year= 2017 | volume= 372 | issue=  | pages= 162-170 | pmid=28017205 | doi=10.1016/j.jns.2016.11.053 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=28017205  }} </ref>. These are different but closely related moment disorder<ref name="pmid33854473">{{cite journal| author=Ma H, Qu J, Ye L, Shu Y, Qu Q| title=Blepharospasm, Oromandibular Dystonia, and Meige Syndrome: Clinical and Genetic Update. | journal=Front Neurol | year= 2021 | volume= 12 | issue= | pages= 630221 | pmid=33854473 | doi=10.3389/fneur.2021.630221 | pmc=8039296 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=33854473 }} </ref>,<ref name="pmid38274886">{{cite journal| author=Zhu L, Meng H, Zhang W, Xie W, Sun H, Hou S| title=The pathogenesis of blepharospasm. | journal=Front Neurol | year= 2023 | volume= 14 | issue= | pages= 1336348 | pmid=38274886 | doi=10.3389/fneur.2023.1336348 | pmc=10808626 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=38274886 }} </ref>.The disorder was first identified by French neurologist Henry Meige in the 20th century, who referred to it as “spasm facial median”. Later, in 1972, Dr. George Paulson introduced the term Magee's syndrome and defined it as the involuntary movements of the oromandibular and blepharospasm <ref name="pmid29807200">{{cite journal| author=Aires A, Gomes T, Linhares P, Cunha F, Rosas MJ, Vaz R| title=The impact of deep brain stimulation on health related quality of life and disease-specific disability in Meige Syndrome (MS). | journal=Clin Neurol Neurosurg | year= 2018 | volume= 171 | issue=  | pages= 53-57 | pmid=29807200 | doi=10.1016/j.clineuro.2018.05.012 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=29807200  }} </ref>,<ref name="pmid30658849">{{cite journal| author=Sellal F, Frismand S| title=Cervico-facial dystonia as depicted in sculpture before its scientific description. | journal=Rev Neurol (Paris) | year= 2019 | volume= 175 | issue= 3 | pages= 198-200 | pmid=30658849 | doi=10.1016/j.neurol.2018.05.006 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=30658849  }} </ref>.
Meige syndrome is classified among the focal dystonic disorders, characterized by blepharospasm (double eyelid spasm) and oromandibular dystonia. Dystonia is described as unusual involuntary postures or movements resulting from continuous muscle contractions, typically arising from neurological and medical conditions. In the early 20th century, Henry Meige, a French neurologist, observed abnormal contractions in the midline facial muscles of certain patients, initially termed “spasm facial median.” These individuals also exhibited similar symptoms in the jaw and oropharyngeal muscles. The designation “Meige syndrome” was first suggested by Dr. George Paulson in 1972 for patients exhibiting facial muscle spasms, especially blepharospasm and oromandibular muscle dystonia. Subsequently, Gilbert introduced the term “Brueghel syndrome” for a case of jaw dystonia, which is distinguished from Meige syndrome by the lack of blepharospasm.<ref name="pmid30952124">{{cite journal| author=Wang X, Mao Z, Cui Z, Xu X, Pan L, Liang S | display-authors=etal| title=Predictive factors for long-term clinical outcomes of deep brain stimulation in the treatment of primary Meige syndrome. | journal=J Neurosurg | year= 2019 | volume= 132 | issue= 5 | pages= 1367-1375 | pmid=30952124 | doi=10.3171/2019.1.JNS182555 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=30952124 }} </ref><ref name="pmid30658849">{{cite journal| author=Sellal F, Frismand S| title=Cervico-facial dystonia as depicted in sculpture before its scientific description. | journal=Rev Neurol (Paris) | year= 2019 | volume= 175 | issue= 3 | pages= 198-200 | pmid=30658849 | doi=10.1016/j.neurol.2018.05.006 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=30658849 }} </ref><ref name="pmid29807200">{{cite journal| author=Aires A, Gomes T, Linhares P, Cunha F, Rosas MJ, Vaz R| title=The impact of deep brain stimulation on health related quality of life and disease-specific disability in Meige Syndrome (MS). | journal=Clin Neurol Neurosurg | year= 2018 | volume= 171 | issue=  | pages= 53-57 | pmid=29807200 | doi=10.1016/j.clineuro.2018.05.012 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=29807200  }} </ref>


== '''Pathophysiology''' ==
The predominant theory for the development of Meige syndrome centers on hyperactivity in dopaminergic and cholinergic systems, as previously mentioned. However, it may also stem from the reduced activity of inhibitory neurons, such as GABAergic neurons, within the cortex. Additionally, a mix of environmental and genetic factors may predispose individuals to craniocervical dystonia. Some studies suggest abnormal sensorimotor processing in these patients, evidenced by positron emission tomography scans showing diminished blood flow to the sensorimotor region when the lower face is vibrated. Silent functional MRI scans have revealed reduced activity in the primary motor cortex (Brodmann Area 4) and premotor cortex (Brodmann Area 6), particularly in the areas representing the mouth in patients with Meige syndrome who exhibit isolated blepharospasm. This could be due to irregular regulation of the cranial nerve nuclei in the brain stem by the basal ganglia. Brain imaging has detected a decrease in grey matter volume in the cerebellum, superior frontal gyrus, insular cortex, and calcarine fissure in individuals with craniocervical dystonia. Focal dystonias also share a genetic component in their pathogenesis. At the cellular level, mutations in the torsinA gene seem to disrupt the trafficking of vesicles into and out of the nucleus, leading to transcriptional dysregulation. Similar mechanisms have been implicated in other primary focal dystonias, such as mutations in CNS transcription factors (TAF1, THAP1). Animal and human model studies provide evidence of these genetic mutations disrupting the development of neuronal networks. Emotional stress may play a role in 33% of Meige syndrome cases, with primary symptoms including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. History and Physical
== '''Etiology''' ==
Primary Meige Syndrome Research and clinical observations have underscored the role of genetic factors in the disease’s development. Clinical signs of Meige syndrome have been linked to patients with mutations such as p.Gly213Ser or p.Ala353thr. More recently, mutations in the GNAL gene (encoding the guanine nucleotide-binding protein G, alpha subunit) have been implicated in cranial and cervical dystonia, though further evidence is required.<ref name="pmid29716720">{{cite journal| author=Pedrero-Escalas MF, García-López I, Santiago-Pérez S, Vivancos F, Gavilán J| title=Clinical experience with patients with spasmodic dysphonia and primary Meige syndrome. | journal=Acta Otorrinolaringol Esp (Engl Ed) | year= 2019 | volume= 70 | issue= 1 | pages= 1-5 | pmid=29716720 | doi=10.1016/j.otorri.2017.11.007 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=29716720  }} </ref><ref name="pmid29568690">{{cite journal| author=Jochim A, Li Y, Gora-Stahlberg G, Mantel T, Berndt M, Castrop F | display-authors=etal| title=Altered functional connectivity in blepharospasm/orofacial dystonia. | journal=Brain Behav | year= 2018 | volume= 8 | issue= 1 | pages= e00894 | pmid=29568690 | doi=10.1002/brb3.894 | pmc=5853618 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=29568690  }} </ref><ref name="pmid29350600">{{cite journal| author=Horisawa S, Ochiai T, Goto S, Nakajima T, Takeda N, Kawamata T | display-authors=etal| title=Long-term outcome of pallidal stimulation for Meige syndrome. | journal=J Neurosurg | year= 2018 | volume= 130 | issue= 1 | pages= 84-89 | pmid=29350600 | doi=10.3171/2017.7.JNS17323 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=29350600  }} </ref>Secondary Meige Syndrome A quarter of patients on neuroleptic drugs for over a year experience receptor function changes, leading to facial or cervical dystonia due to denervation hypersensitivity. This condition is believed to result from increased central dopaminergic activity, a theory supported by the improvement observed with dopamine-depleting agents. Medications that elevate central dopamine levels include antiemetics (such as metoclopramide), antipsychotics, antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, antihistamines, and dopaminergic agonists. Additionally, head injuries, strokes, brain stem demyelination, normal pressure hydrocephalus, cerebral hypoxia, postoperative conditions (like bilateral thalamotomy), kernicterus, space-occupying lesions, and post-encephalitis can be associated. Meige syndrome may also co-occur with other movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Wilson’s disease, olivopontocerebellar atrophy, or Lewy body disease.<ref name="pmid28659707">{{cite journal| author=Gautam P, Bhatia MS, Kaur J, Rathi A| title=Meige's syndrome. | journal=Ind Psychiatry J | year= 2016 | volume= 25 | issue= 2 | pages= 232-233 | pmid=28659707 | doi=10.4103/0972-6748.207853 | pmc=5479101 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=28659707  }} </ref>


== '''Epidemiology''' ==
== '''Epidemiology''' ==
The disease appears between the age of 30-70 years, with a mean onset age of 55.7 years. It is prevalent in older females than males, with a ratio of 2:1. This may be due to certain estrogen receptors that affect involuntary motor function and make women more vulnerable to experiencing involuntary muscle spasms. The disease is observed in approximately 100 cases per 100,000 people<ref name="pmidPMID: 28017205">{{cite journal| author=Pandey S, Sharma S| title=Meige's syndrome: History, epidemiology, clinical features, pathogenesis and treatment. | journal=J Neurol Sci | year= 2017 | volume= 372 | issue=  | pages= 162-170 | pmid=PMID: 28017205 | doi=10.1016/j.jns.2016.11.053 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=28017205  }} </ref>
The clinical manifestations of Meige syndrome are diverse. Typically, affected individuals are between 30 to 70 years old, with an average age of 55.7 years, although cases in teenagers have been reported. The prevalence of isolated blepharospasm and craniocervical dystonia varies, with estimates ranging from 2% to 20%. A higher incidence has been noted in females, possibly due to specific estrogen receptors that may predispose them to involuntary muscle contractions.
 
== '''Etiology'''<ref name="pmidDOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.06.002">{{cite journal| author=Schmoldt A, Benthe HF, Haberland G| title=Digitoxin metabolism by rat liver microsomes. | journal=Biochem Pharmacol | year= 1975 | volume= 24 | issue= 17 | pages= 1639-41 | pmid=DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2023.06.002 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=10  }} </ref>,<ref name="pmidDOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-05900-8">{{cite journal| author=Schmoldt A, Benthe HF, Haberland G| title=Digitoxin metabolism by rat liver microsomes. | journal=Biochem Pharmacol | year= 1975 | volume= 24 | issue= 17 | pages= 1639-41 | pmid=DOI: 10.1007/s10072-022-05900-8 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=10  }} </ref> ==
 
=== '''Genetic dystonia''': ===
It is caused by gene variants including TOR1A, TOR2A, GNAL, OR1A, REEP4, and THAP1, respectively. TOR1A and THAP1 play a significant role in the pathophysiology of the disease.


=== '''Acquired dystonia:''' ===
== '''Clinical Presentation''' ==
It is caused by environmental factors such as medical conditions including (trauma, cerebral palsay, stroke, encephalopathy, etc), medications, and poisons including (heavy metal toxicity, antipsychotic medication, and others).
The clinical presentation of Meige syndrome can vary widely. It may initially manifest as unilateral blepharospasm before progressing to bilateral involvement. The syndrome is known for its diverse phenotypic expressions, which can range from tonic spasms or prolonged eye closure, clonus of the orbicularis oculi muscle, to complete inability to open the eyes due to eyelid weakness or blepharoptosis. This progressive muscle dysfunction typically starts as a focal neurological issue, manifesting as either essential blepharospasm or oromandibular dystonia, and may eventually spread to other muscle groups, including those in the neck (antecollis, retrocollis, torticollis), respiratory system, or upper limbs (dystonic tremors). The oromandibular muscles most frequently involved are the temporalis, masseter, and platysma. Patients may experience involuntary movements of the lower face and masticatory muscles, such as lip pursing, chewing, grimacing, jaw thrusting, and opening or closing/clenching. It has been observed that the risk of dystonic contractions spreading to adjacent muscle groups is highest in the first year following the onset of initial symptoms, with the possibility of spread continuing for the next 3 to 5 years. Factors that may increase the risk of spread in patients with blepharospasm include older age at onset, female gender, and a history of head trauma.<ref name="pmid28017205">{{cite journal| author=Pandey S, Sharma S| title=Meige's syndrome: History, epidemiology, clinical features, pathogenesis and treatment. | journal=J Neurol Sci | year= 2017 | volume= 372 | issue=  | pages= 162-170 | pmid=28017205 | doi=10.1016/j.jns.2016.11.053 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=28017205  }} </ref><ref name="pmid26417535">{{cite journal| author=Broussolle E, Laurencin C, Bernard E, Thobois S, Danaila T, Krack P| title=Early Illustrations of Geste Antagoniste in Cervical and Generalized Dystonia. | journal=Tremor Other Hyperkinet Mov (N Y) | year= 2015 | volume= 5 | issue=  | pages= 332 | pmid=26417535 | doi=10.7916/D8KD1X74 | pmc=4582593 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=26417535  }} </ref> Sensory tricks, which are sensory stimuli that patients learn to use to alleviate dystonia, are common in Meige syndrome. Examples include sleeping, relaxing, speaking, pulling the upper eyelid, blowing cheeks, walking, exposure to cold water, yawning, or drinking beverages. Over half of the patients with blepharospasm report having one or more sensory tricks.


== '''Presentations''' <ref name="pmidDOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2019-321794">{{cite journal| author=Schmoldt A, Benthe HF, Haberland G| title=Digitoxin metabolism by rat liver microsomes. | journal=Biochem Pharmacol | year= 1975 | volume= 24 | issue= 17 | pages= 1639-41 | pmid=DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2019-321794 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=10  }} </ref>,<ref name="pmidDOI:10.20961/magnaneurologica.v1i2.700">{{cite journal| author=Schmoldt A, Benthe HF, Haberland G| title=Digitoxin metabolism by rat liver microsomes. | journal=Biochem Pharmacol | year= 1975 | volume= 24 | issue= 17 | pages= 1639-41 | pmid=DOI:10.20961/magnaneurologica.v1i2.700 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=10  }} </ref>,<ref name="pmidDOI: 10.4103/NJM.NJM_84_23">{{cite journal| author=Schmoldt A, Benthe HF, Haberland G| title=Digitoxin metabolism by rat liver microsomes. | journal=Biochem Pharmacol | year= 1975 | volume= 24 | issue= 17 | pages= 1639-41 | pmid=DOI: 10.4103/NJM.NJM_84_23 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=10  }} </ref> ==
== '''Evaluation''' ==
Blepharospasm affects the eyelid and increases blinking along with ocular pain but due to the disease progressing to oromandibular dystonia patient experiences involuntary tongue movements and has difficulty with eating, swallowing, laughing, speaking, and yawning. These symptoms persist until the patients consciously relax. Emotional stress can worsen diseases in around 33% of patients this can be shown by symptoms such as sleeplessness, sadness, and increased muscular tension.


=== '''Blepharospasm related symptoms  ''' ===
* Workup should include
*      Eyelid fluttering
* Facial electromyography
*      Exaggerated blinking
* MRI/CT brain to rule out the stroke or any other brain lesion
*      [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11016287/ Apraxia  of eyelid opening]
* Serum SSA/SSB level
*      Involuntary closing of the eye
* Serum Cu and ceruloplasmin level
*      Discomfort in opening eye
* Beck's depression inventory
*      Blindness
* Serum drug screen
*      Photophobia
*      Dry eyes


=== '''Oromandibular dystonia related symptoms:''' ===
== '''Treatment / Management''' ==
*      Unilateral retraction of the lip cheek, and jaw
Treatment for Meige syndrome encompasses a range of medical and surgical strategies. Given the underlying mechanisms of Meige syndrome, it’s understandable that anticholinergics (such as trihexyphenidyl), dopamine antagonists (like tiapride, tetrabenazine), and GABA receptor agonists (including benzodiazepines, baclofen) prove beneficial for patients. Additional therapeutic options include antiepileptics (for instance, valproic acid) and various psychoactive drugs. Eszopiclone and nitrazepam target specific subunits (omega-1 and omega-2) within the GABA receptor complex, helping to relieve eyelid spasms. Case studies indicate that zolpidem is particularly effective for these patients due to its specificity for the GABA omega-1 receptor. However, prolonged use of psychoactive drugs may induce eyelid spasms, commonly linked to typical antipsychotics, although an exacerbation of blepharospasm has also been observed with olanzapine use.<ref name="pmid25432724">{{cite journal| author=Jinnah HA, Factor SA| title=Diagnosis and treatment of dystonia. | journal=Neurol Clin | year= 2015 | volume= 33 | issue= 1 | pages= 77-100 | pmid=25432724 | doi=10.1016/j.ncl.2014.09.002 | pmc=4248237 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25432724 }} </ref><ref name="pmid23202323">{{cite journal| author=Karp BI| title=Botulinum toxin physiology in focal hand and cranial dystonia. | journal=Toxins (Basel) | year= 2012 | volume= 4 | issue= 11 | pages= 1404-14 | pmid=23202323 | doi=10.3390/toxins4111404 | pmc=3509715 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23202323 }} </ref><ref name="pmid22212990">{{cite journal| author=Sobstyl M, Ząbek M| title=[Deep brain stimulation in the treatment of torticollis and Meige syndrome]. | journal=Neurol Neurochir Pol | year= 2011 | volume= 45 | issue= 6 | pages= 590-9 | pmid=22212990 | doi=10.1016/s0028-3843(14)60127-4 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=22212990  }} </ref>Botulinum A injections have shown promise and are typically reserved for patients who do not respond well to oral medications or experience adverse effects from them. The main limitation to the widespread use of Botulinum A injections is the potential for therapeutic resistance, which can develop from antibody production after repeated and long-term treatment. Additionally, these injections may lead to muscle weakness in adjacent areas or exacerbate existing conditions like dysphagia or dysarthria.
*     Jaw pain
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) targeting the globus pallidus interna (GPi) has been recognized as an effective therapy for patients who do not achieve satisfactory results with botulinum toxin or other conservative treatments. The placement of DBS electrodes is carefully planned, as the ventral and posterior parts of the GPi correspond topographically to the facial region, while the cervicofacial area is more anteriorly located.<ref name="pmid21553081">{{cite journal| author=Limotai N, Go C, Oyama G, Hwynn N, Zesiewicz T, Foote K | display-authors=etal| title=Mixed results for GPi-DBS in the treatment of cranio-facial and cranio-cervical dystonia symptoms. | journal=J Neurol | year= 2011 | volume= 258 | issue= 11 | pages= 2069-74 | pmid=21553081 | doi=10.1007/s00415-011-6075-0 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=21553081  }} </ref>
*      Difficulty in opening and closing mouth
*     Trismus,
*      [https://www.spandidos-publications.com//10.3892/br.2024.1747 Bruxism]
*      Stuck teeth


== Diagnosis ==
Meige's syndrome is a rare disease normally diagnosed using a patient's medical history, external observations, and neurological examination. There is no particular test to identify Meige's syndrome, several procedures are conducted to rule out other probable causes. These might include genetic screening, face electromyography, VBM-MRI, CT, serum testing for SSA/SSB levels, serum copper and ceruloplasmin levels, Beck's depression inventory, and serum drug screening <ref name="pmidPMID: 30020730">{{cite journal| author=| title=StatPearls | journal= | year= 2024 | volume=  | issue=  | pages=  | pmid=PMID: 30020730 | doi= | pmc= | url= }} </ref>.


==Treatment==
There is currently no known cure for MS, however medical therapy can help decrease discomfort and improve a patient's quality of life. The sort of treatment is administered based on the patient's medical condition and history. Treatment options include surgery(e.g partial resection of the periorbital muscle, which surrounds the eye) medication (given orally) are anticholinergics (trihexyphenidyl and benztropine), benzodiazepines (clonazepam, diazepam, and lorazepam), GABA receptor agonist (baclofen), dopamine precursor(bromocriptine, and tiapride), vesicular monoamine transporter 2 inhibitor (tetrabenazine), anticonvulsant such as levetiracetam<ref name="pmiddoi.org/10.3389/fneur.2021.630221">{{cite journal| author=Schmoldt A, Benthe HF, Haberland G| title=Digitoxin metabolism by rat liver microsomes. | journal=Biochem Pharmacol | year= 1975 | volume= 24 | issue= 17 | pages= 1639-41 | pmid=doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2021.630221 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=10  }} </ref>. and rehabilitative treatment (include physiotherapy, occupational therapy) and BoNT injection it is used as a primary treatment option for MS it help to reduced muscle spasm<ref name="pmidDOI:10.20961/magnaneurologica.v1i2.700">{{cite journal| author=Schmoldt A, Benthe HF, Haberland G| title=Digitoxin metabolism by rat liver microsomes. | journal=Biochem Pharmacol | year= 1975 | volume= 24 | issue= 17 | pages= 1639-41 | pmid=DOI:10.20961/magnaneurologica.v1i2.700 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=10  }} </ref>. When other treatments are failed to control the disease then Deep brain stimulation of the globus pallidus interna (GPi) is a therapeutic approach<ref name="pmidDOI: 10.3171/2023.11.JNS232075">{{cite journal| author=Schmoldt A, Benthe HF, Haberland G| title=Digitoxin metabolism by rat liver microsomes. | journal=Biochem Pharmacol | year= 1975 | volume= 24 | issue= 17 | pages= 1639-41 | pmid=DOI: 10.3171/2023.11.JNS232075 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=10  }} </ref>.


==See also==
==See also==

Revision as of 11:58, 14 June 2024

Overview

Not to be confused with Meigs syndrome

Meige syndrome is classified among the focal dystonic disorders, characterized by blepharospasm (double eyelid spasm) and oromandibular dystonia. Dystonia is described as unusual involuntary postures or movements resulting from continuous muscle contractions, typically arising from neurological and medical conditions. In the early 20th century, Henry Meige, a French neurologist, observed abnormal contractions in the midline facial muscles of certain patients, initially termed “spasm facial median.” These individuals also exhibited similar symptoms in the jaw and oropharyngeal muscles. The designation “Meige syndrome” was first suggested by Dr. George Paulson in 1972 for patients exhibiting facial muscle spasms, especially blepharospasm and oromandibular muscle dystonia. Subsequently, Gilbert introduced the term “Brueghel syndrome” for a case of jaw dystonia, which is distinguished from Meige syndrome by the lack of blepharospasm.[1][2][3]

Pathophysiology

The predominant theory for the development of Meige syndrome centers on hyperactivity in dopaminergic and cholinergic systems, as previously mentioned. However, it may also stem from the reduced activity of inhibitory neurons, such as GABAergic neurons, within the cortex. Additionally, a mix of environmental and genetic factors may predispose individuals to craniocervical dystonia. Some studies suggest abnormal sensorimotor processing in these patients, evidenced by positron emission tomography scans showing diminished blood flow to the sensorimotor region when the lower face is vibrated. Silent functional MRI scans have revealed reduced activity in the primary motor cortex (Brodmann Area 4) and premotor cortex (Brodmann Area 6), particularly in the areas representing the mouth in patients with Meige syndrome who exhibit isolated blepharospasm. This could be due to irregular regulation of the cranial nerve nuclei in the brain stem by the basal ganglia. Brain imaging has detected a decrease in grey matter volume in the cerebellum, superior frontal gyrus, insular cortex, and calcarine fissure in individuals with craniocervical dystonia. Focal dystonias also share a genetic component in their pathogenesis. At the cellular level, mutations in the torsinA gene seem to disrupt the trafficking of vesicles into and out of the nucleus, leading to transcriptional dysregulation. Similar mechanisms have been implicated in other primary focal dystonias, such as mutations in CNS transcription factors (TAF1, THAP1). Animal and human model studies provide evidence of these genetic mutations disrupting the development of neuronal networks. Emotional stress may play a role in 33% of Meige syndrome cases, with primary symptoms including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. History and Physical

Etiology

Primary Meige Syndrome Research and clinical observations have underscored the role of genetic factors in the disease’s development. Clinical signs of Meige syndrome have been linked to patients with mutations such as p.Gly213Ser or p.Ala353thr. More recently, mutations in the GNAL gene (encoding the guanine nucleotide-binding protein G, alpha subunit) have been implicated in cranial and cervical dystonia, though further evidence is required.[4][5][6]Secondary Meige Syndrome A quarter of patients on neuroleptic drugs for over a year experience receptor function changes, leading to facial or cervical dystonia due to denervation hypersensitivity. This condition is believed to result from increased central dopaminergic activity, a theory supported by the improvement observed with dopamine-depleting agents. Medications that elevate central dopamine levels include antiemetics (such as metoclopramide), antipsychotics, antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, antihistamines, and dopaminergic agonists. Additionally, head injuries, strokes, brain stem demyelination, normal pressure hydrocephalus, cerebral hypoxia, postoperative conditions (like bilateral thalamotomy), kernicterus, space-occupying lesions, and post-encephalitis can be associated. Meige syndrome may also co-occur with other movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Wilson’s disease, olivopontocerebellar atrophy, or Lewy body disease.[7]

Epidemiology

The clinical manifestations of Meige syndrome are diverse. Typically, affected individuals are between 30 to 70 years old, with an average age of 55.7 years, although cases in teenagers have been reported. The prevalence of isolated blepharospasm and craniocervical dystonia varies, with estimates ranging from 2% to 20%. A higher incidence has been noted in females, possibly due to specific estrogen receptors that may predispose them to involuntary muscle contractions.

Clinical Presentation

The clinical presentation of Meige syndrome can vary widely. It may initially manifest as unilateral blepharospasm before progressing to bilateral involvement. The syndrome is known for its diverse phenotypic expressions, which can range from tonic spasms or prolonged eye closure, clonus of the orbicularis oculi muscle, to complete inability to open the eyes due to eyelid weakness or blepharoptosis. This progressive muscle dysfunction typically starts as a focal neurological issue, manifesting as either essential blepharospasm or oromandibular dystonia, and may eventually spread to other muscle groups, including those in the neck (antecollis, retrocollis, torticollis), respiratory system, or upper limbs (dystonic tremors). The oromandibular muscles most frequently involved are the temporalis, masseter, and platysma. Patients may experience involuntary movements of the lower face and masticatory muscles, such as lip pursing, chewing, grimacing, jaw thrusting, and opening or closing/clenching. It has been observed that the risk of dystonic contractions spreading to adjacent muscle groups is highest in the first year following the onset of initial symptoms, with the possibility of spread continuing for the next 3 to 5 years. Factors that may increase the risk of spread in patients with blepharospasm include older age at onset, female gender, and a history of head trauma.[8][9] Sensory tricks, which are sensory stimuli that patients learn to use to alleviate dystonia, are common in Meige syndrome. Examples include sleeping, relaxing, speaking, pulling the upper eyelid, blowing cheeks, walking, exposure to cold water, yawning, or drinking beverages. Over half of the patients with blepharospasm report having one or more sensory tricks.

Evaluation

  • Workup should include
  • Facial electromyography
  • MRI/CT brain to rule out the stroke or any other brain lesion
  • Serum SSA/SSB level
  • Serum Cu and ceruloplasmin level
  • Beck's depression inventory
  • Serum drug screen

Treatment / Management

Treatment for Meige syndrome encompasses a range of medical and surgical strategies. Given the underlying mechanisms of Meige syndrome, it’s understandable that anticholinergics (such as trihexyphenidyl), dopamine antagonists (like tiapride, tetrabenazine), and GABA receptor agonists (including benzodiazepines, baclofen) prove beneficial for patients. Additional therapeutic options include antiepileptics (for instance, valproic acid) and various psychoactive drugs. Eszopiclone and nitrazepam target specific subunits (omega-1 and omega-2) within the GABA receptor complex, helping to relieve eyelid spasms. Case studies indicate that zolpidem is particularly effective for these patients due to its specificity for the GABA omega-1 receptor. However, prolonged use of psychoactive drugs may induce eyelid spasms, commonly linked to typical antipsychotics, although an exacerbation of blepharospasm has also been observed with olanzapine use.[10][11][12]Botulinum A injections have shown promise and are typically reserved for patients who do not respond well to oral medications or experience adverse effects from them. The main limitation to the widespread use of Botulinum A injections is the potential for therapeutic resistance, which can develop from antibody production after repeated and long-term treatment. Additionally, these injections may lead to muscle weakness in adjacent areas or exacerbate existing conditions like dysphagia or dysarthria. Deep brain stimulation (DBS) targeting the globus pallidus interna (GPi) has been recognized as an effective therapy for patients who do not achieve satisfactory results with botulinum toxin or other conservative treatments. The placement of DBS electrodes is carefully planned, as the ventral and posterior parts of the GPi correspond topographically to the facial region, while the cervicofacial area is more anteriorly located.[13]


See also

Reference

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  2. Sellal F, Frismand S (2019). "Cervico-facial dystonia as depicted in sculpture before its scientific description". Rev Neurol (Paris). 175 (3): 198–200. doi:10.1016/j.neurol.2018.05.006. PMID 30658849.
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