DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_1153_26 ISSN: 2772-3070

Isolated Marcus Gunn jaw-winking phenomenon: A case series and review of literature

Kiran Choudhary, Manasi Nayak, Ankur K Shrivastava

Two cases of isolated Marcus Gunn jaw-winking phenomenon (MGJWP) without ptosis were observed across different age groups. A 24-year-old female presented with jaw-winking consistent with the release hypothesis, suggesting a central disinhibitory mechanism. A 5-year-old male presented since early childhood, consistent with the structural brainstem misdirection theory. In both cases, visual acuity, ocular motility, and anterior and posterior segment examinations were within normal limits, with no associated ptosis. MGJWP without ptosis is a rare but benign entity. Recognition of this atypical presentation helps differentiate it from mimicking conditions and avoids unnecessary investigations, while enabling appropriate counseling, reassurance, and follow-up.

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