Floppy eyelid syndrome in stickler syndrome

Abstract

Purpose: To report the possible connection between Stickler syndrome and floppy eyelid syndrome. Observations: A 36-year-old man with genetically confirmed Stickler syndrome presented with prominent bilateral eyelid laxity consistent with floppy eyelid syndrome. He had a high-arched palate and reported years of apneic episodes during sleep consistent with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Conclusions and importance: To our knowledge, there have been no prior reported cases of floppy eyelid syndrome in Stickler syndrome patients. However, many patients with Stickler syndrome have palate abnormalities, which are associated with a higher risk of OSA. Given the known association between floppy eyelid syndrome and OSA, this case highlights the potential role for the ophthalmologist in identifying these patients and referring them for a sleep study if floppy eyelid syndrome is identified. Keywords: Stickler syndrome, Floppy eyelid, Obstructive sleep apnea, Collagen