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Eyelid myokymia: not always benign
Anne Barmettler1, Marc J Dinkin, Gary J Lelli
1Division of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Weill Cornell Department of Ophthalmology, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York, USA. gjl9003@med.cornell.edu
Orbit (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
|October 1, 2011
Summary
Eyelid myokymia, often benign, can rarely indicate serious neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis when it progresses to involve the face. This case highlights the importance of considering brainstem disease in evolving myokymia.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
Background:
- Eyelid myokymia is typically a benign, isolated condition.
- Facial myokymia can indicate underlying neurological disease.
Observation:
- A 33-year-old male presented with isolated eyelid myokymia.
- Myokymia progressed to involve the brow and upper lip within two weeks.
Findings:
- Brain imaging revealed demyelinating lesions consistent with multiple sclerosis.
- Facial myokymia can be a rare presenting sign of central nervous system disorders.
Implications:
- Oculoplastic surgeons should be aware that evolving myokymia may signal serious underlying neurological conditions.
- Prompt neurological investigation is warranted for patients with progressing facial myokymia.
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