A Rare Case of a Good Neurological Outcome following Traumatic Foix-Chavany-Marie Syndrome

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can have profound acute and chronic effects, leading to permanent disabilities and diminished quality of life. Pseudobulbar palsy and its infrequent subtype, Foix-Chavany-Marie Syndrome (FCMS), represent rare complications of TBI, manifesting as deficits in craniofacial motor function and automatic-voluntary dissociation. We present a case of a 58-year-old male who developed FCMS following severe TBI from a cycling accident. Initial imaging revealed extensive brain injury with subsequent development of FCMS characterised by bilateral cranial nerve dysfunction, notably facio-pharyngo-glosso-masticatory diplegia with preserved automatic motor function. This case contributes to the limited literature on traumatic FCMS, highlighting its distinct clinical features and potential for favourable outcomes compared to nontraumatic cases. Early recognition and comprehensive management, including supportive therapy and addressing underlying conditions, are paramount for optimising patient outcomes.