Jaw - winking phenomenon: Report of a case with review of literature

Abstract

Jaw-winking or the Marcus Gunn phenomenon (MGP), a congenital uncommon condition characterized by involuntary elevation of a drooping upper eyelid concomitant with various movements of the mandible, is well-documented in medical literature, but very little information is available in dental literature. This is an interesting case report of a 17-year-old female with MGP, who reported for orthodontic treatment of her proclined upper anterior teeth, severe lower crowding, and mandibular micrognathia. Review of the literature revealed only two reported cases of dental anomalies in conjunction with MGP. The patient also gave a positive family history of MGP with a maternal cousin having a similar problem. Dentists and other oral health professionals can play a significant role in detection and diagnosis of this rare condition and should take protective measures during dental and oral surgical procedures.

Keywords

• Jaw winking
• Marcus Gunn
• ptosis