10 Important Facts About Horner’s Syndrome

Some medical conditions are so rare that most people don’t know anything about them. This is the case with Horner’s syndrome. This disorder generally impacts one side of the face and has various different causes. Sometimes, Horner’s syndrome is the result of birth trauma caused by improper use of forceps or a vacuum extractor, shoulder dystocia, failure to monitor and respond to fetal distress, failure to perform an emergency C-section, and failure to identify breech. In any of these situations, it is possible that the medical professional involved made a mistake or acted negligently. If your baby suffered Horner’s syndrome as a result of medical malpractice, it may be possible to take legal action.

If you’re in need of a Baltimore birth injury attorney, Murphy, Falcon & Murphy can help. Schedule a consultation with our legal team today.

Here’s what you should know about Horner’s syndrome:

1

Horner’s syndrome only affects one side of the face, and is often characterized by a drooping upper eyelid, a sinking of the eyeball, an absence of sweating, and a constricted pupil.

2

It is rarer for Horner’s syndrome to be congenital. It is more commonly the result of trauma to the neck or to the sympathetic nerves serving the eyes.

3

In some cases, Horner’s syndrome beginning before the age of two can make the irises of the eyes different colors. Sometimes, the affected eye may lack color completely.

4

Horner’s syndrome may be caused by the development of a tumor in the neck or chest cavity, or by a lesion in the brain stem or upper spinal cord.

5

In cases not involving malpractice, the exact cause of Horner’s syndrome (possibly a genetic trait) is unknown and there is no apparent reason for it occurring.

6

There are no specific affected populations, as the condition occurs similarly in males and females as well as in any ethnic population.

7

The symptoms of Horner’s syndrome are similar to other disorders including Adie syndrome and Wallenberg syndrome, making diagnosis even more important and oftentimes difficult.

8

Diagnosing Horner’s syndrome is often dependent on pharmacological tests and imaging tests such as ultrasounds, MRIs, and other ways of determining the location of lesions.

9

The location and cause of the tumor or lesion would help determine the treatment options. This could include surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy.

10

There is a potential for Horner’s syndrome to be caused by trauma during the labor or delivery process.

Your Top Rated Local® Baltimore Birth Injury Attorneys

At Murphy, Falcon & Murphy, our Baltimore birth injury lawyers understand the consequences of doctor negligence, including the potential for causing Horner’s syndrome, which can cause your child to suffer long-term issues.You should know that you have legal options. Because this is a difficult time for you and your family, you can count on us to stand by your side throughout the entire legal process, working to help you reach the outcome you desire. When you need to hold the negligent party financially accountable, count on our team of birth injury attorneys to help. Schedule a consultation with our Baltimore birth injury attorney to learn more about your options.