Bilateral Anterior Opercular Syndrome

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Opercular syndrome, or Foix-Chavany-Marie syndrome, is a cortical pseudobulbar palsy.
• It involves paralysis of facial, masticatory, pharyngeal, laryngeal, brachial, and tongue muscles, often due to vascular causes.

Observation:

• A 61-year-old male presented with a 1.5-month history of chewing, swallowing, and vocalization difficulties.
• Clinical presentation included anarthria and weakness of voluntary muscles controlling the face, tongue, pharynx, larynx, and mastication.

Findings:

• Imaging confirmed the diagnosis of opercular syndrome.
• Autonomic reflexes and emotional functions of the affected structures remained preserved, distinguishing it from other conditions.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of recognizing opercular syndrome in patients with pseudobulbar symptoms.
• Accurate diagnosis through imaging is crucial for appropriate management and understanding the neurological underpinnings of this rare condition.