Parry-Romberg syndrome (PRS) is a rare disorder that affects facial structures on one side of the face. Skin and soft tissues in the face can fade away over time, which is known as atrophy. Facial atrophy can affect a person’s appearance and cause problems with self-esteem and self-image.
As a rare condition, doctors are still unsure what causes PRS. However, the condition can be effectively treated in many cases.
Symptoms of PRS usually impact one side of the face, often the left side. However, the condition can also involve both sides of the face in rare cases. Facial atrophy associated with PRS can impact numerous areas, such as the eye, ear, or cheek, as well as the neck, tongue, and brow.
PRS is usually first detected in the area between the nose and the top corner of the lip. Symptoms may also affect the upper part of the jaw. Facial effects can advance for a period of two to ten years, at which point symptoms usually cease.
Researchers aren’t entirely sure what causes PRS. Some theorize that it results from immune dysfunction caused by inflamed tissues in the body. In this case, it’s thought that the immune system may attack parts of the body mistakenly, which leads to tissue atrophy.
While the specific cause is not fully understood, there are several risk factors associated with PRS, including:
In addition to evaluating facial symptoms, doctors can also use MRIs and other tests to diagnose PRS.
Treatment of PRS is focused on managing symptoms of the disorder. Surgery may be recommended, but only once the facial effects have stopped progressing. At that point, doctors can perform surgeries to improve the appearance of the face. This can involve bone and muscle grafts, as well as injections of silicone in deficient areas.
While PRS cannot be cured, many people experience a positive outlook. This is especially true with minor cases of the condition, which typically cause no serious health effects other than cosmetic concerns.