General Medical Information

Other Facial Syndromes

Frank E. Lucente
Samir Shah
Roger Kula

Horner syndrome is caused by interruption of sympathetic pathways in the medulla, spinal cord, and sympathetic trunk. This syndrome is characterized by constriction of pupils, enophthalmos, ptosis, and decreased sweating of the ipsilateral face. The gustatory lacrimal reflex (crocodile tears) is ipsilateral tearing when spicy foods are placed on the tongue. This is caused by faulty regeneration of nerves responsible for salivation with those responsible for lacrimation. Frey syndrome (auriculotemporal syndrome) causes flushing, a sensation of heat, and excessive perspiration over the cheek and pinna after ingestion of spicy food. This is caused by misdirected regeneration of secretomotor fibers, often after injury to the auriculotemporal nerve.