Moebius Syndrome

Moebius syndrome is a rare genetic disorder caused by the underdevelopment of the 6th and 7th cranial nerves, that control eye movements and facial expression. The first symptom is the inability to suck at birth. Other symptoms include: feeding, swallowing, and choking problems; excessive drooling; crossed eyes; lack of facial expression; inability to smile; eye sensitivity; motor delays; high or cleft palate; hearing problems; and speech difficulties.Deformities of the tongue, jaw, and limbs, and webbed fingers, may also occur. As children get older, lack of facial expression and inability to smile become the most common symptoms.