The jaw-winking syndrome

The jaw-winking syndrome involves synkinesis of the pterygoid muscles and levator palpebrae superioris, where the eyelid retracts with mandibular movements. Its appearance in the adult may be associated with other pathology, and recognition in the neonate may allow for earlier recognition of any ophthalmological problems. As it is elicited by jaw movements, the oral health care provider may be the first to recognise the condition. This report describes the incidental finding of jaw-winking syndrome in a 22-year-old Asian man. Although he suffered no physical or psychological effects from the condition, he did have an associated, corrected, ophthalmological defect.