Two Cases of Asymmetric Crying Facies: Congenital Agenesis of the Depressor Anguli Oris Muscle

ABSTRACT

Asymmetric crying facies are caused by unilateral weakness of the depressor muscles of lower lip, which is most obvious during crying and is associated with other congenital anomalies, especially congenital heart disease. This sign results from partial paralysis of facial nerve, specifically the ramus marginalis mandibulae, or congenital agenesis of the depressor anguli oris muscle (DAOM). We report two patients with congenital hypoplasia or absence of DAOM proved by electromyography, who have not cardiac anomalies.