Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome (MRS) and diarrhea in Crohn’s disease

By SWA

 Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome (MRS)

Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome (MRS) is a rare neurological disorder characterized by a triad of symptoms:

  1. Recurrent facial paralysis (facial nerve palsy): This involves weakness or paralysis on one side of the face that comes and goes.
  2. Swelling (edema) of the face and lips (orofacial edema): Particularly the upper lip, though other areas of the face can also be involved.
  3. Fissured tongue (lingua plicata or scrotal tongue): The tongue appears grooved or cracked, often without causing pain.

The exact cause of MRS is unknown, but it's believed to be related to immune or inflammatory processes, and possibly genetic factors. Some cases of MRS have been linked with conditions like Crohn's disease and sarcoidosis, which are also inflammatory in nature.

While the full triad of symptoms is classic, many patients may only have one or two of these signs, making diagnosis difficult. Treatment often involves corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatory agents to reduce swelling and prevent recurrences.

Diarrhea in Suspected Crohn's Disease

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. However, it most commonly affects the ileum (the last part of the small intestine) and the colon. One of the hallmark symptoms of Crohn's disease is diarrhea, which may be accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, weight loss, fatigue, and rectal bleeding.

Diarrhea in Crohn’s disease can be caused by several mechanisms:

  1. Inflammation of the intestines: Chronic inflammation damages the intestinal lining, disrupting the normal absorption of water and electrolytes, leading to watery stools.
  2. Malabsorption: Inflammation and damage to the small intestine can impair the absorption of nutrients, leading to diarrhea.
  3. Bile salt malabsorption: Involvement of the terminal ileum (where bile salts are normally absorbed) can lead to excessive bile salts entering the colon, causing secretory diarrhea.
  4. Fistulas: Abnormal connections between the intestine and other organs or parts of the intestine can cause diarrhea.
  5. Bacterial overgrowth: Inflammation or structural changes in the gut can lead to small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), which can exacerbate diarrhea.

Connection between MRS and Crohn's Disease

While Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome and Crohn's disease are distinct conditions, there is a possible association between the two, likely due to their shared inflammatory basis. MRS involves localized inflammation (especially in facial tissues and the nerves), while Crohn's disease involves systemic inflammation, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract.

Patients with Crohn’s disease have been reported to develop orofacial manifestations like swelling of the lips or cheeks, which can overlap with MRS symptoms. In some cases, the orofacial edema seen in MRS may be an early or extra-intestinal manifestation of Crohn’s disease.

Conclusion

  • Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder with a triad of symptoms, including facial swelling, facial paralysis, and a fissured tongue. It may be associated with Crohn’s disease due to shared inflammatory processes.
  • Diarrhea in Crohn's disease is a common symptom caused by inflammation, malabsorption, bile salt issues, and other factors, and is one of the primary manifestations of the disease.

Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome and diarrhea in Crohn’s disease. Here are a few references and where you can find them:

1. Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome

  • National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)

    • This source provides a comprehensive overview of rare diseases, including Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome.
    • Visit the GARD website
    • You can search for "Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome" in the search bar.

  • Orphanet (Portal for Rare Diseases and Orphan Drugs)

    • Orphanet offers detailed information on rare diseases, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options for Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome.
    • Visit Orphanet
    • Enter "Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome" in the search function.

2. Crohn’s Disease and Diarrhea

  • Crohn's & Colitis Foundation

    • This is a leading organization for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, providing educational materials for patients and healthcare professionals.
    • Visit the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation website
    • Search for "diarrhea in Crohn's disease" for specific information related to gastrointestinal symptoms.

  • Mayo Clinic – Crohn’s Disease Overview

  • UpToDate

    • This is a widely used resource by healthcare professionals for up-to-date, evidence-based information. If you have access, it’s one of the best places to find detailed information on both Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome and Crohn’s disease.
    • Visit UpToDate

For more specific or clinical papers, you can also search PubMed, a database of scientific papers maintained by the NIH:

  • PubMed (NIH Database)
    • Visit PubMed
    • Search for terms like “Melkersson-Rosenthal Syndrome” and "Crohn’s disease diarrhea" to find scientific articles and studies.

These resources should provide detailed, reliable information on both topics.

  © 2000-2025 Sieglinde W. Alexander. All writings by Sieglinde W. Alexander have a fife year copy right.
Library of Congress Card Number: LCN 00-192742
ISBN: 0-9703195-0-9

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Toxic Skin Condition Post-mRNA COVID-19 Vaccination

By SWA
Image
Identifying Severe Skin Conditions Post-Vaccination Following administration of the BioNTech mRNA vaccine, a small subset of individuals may develop severe and complex reactions. These reactions are often misdiagnosed or misunderstood due to their rarity and diverse presentation. This essay examines a case characterized by severe skin conditions, systemic symptoms, and complications such as hypercalcemia and crystal formation. It highlights the need for accurate diagnosis, holistic management, and increased awareness of these rare but significant vaccine-related adverse events. Initial Symptoms and Misdiagnoses Severe symptoms began shortly after the first dose of the BioNTech vaccine, initially presenting as petechiae, diagnosed by a rheumatologist. However, following the second dose, symptoms rapidly escalated, resulting in intense burning pain and thinning of the skin. The skin on the legs and thighs became paper-thin and could tear with the slightest touch, with the affected area e...
Read more

Dysferlin Protein: Key Roles, Genetic Locations

By SWA
Image
The purpose of this article is to share and discuss the details of a new discovery, which is highlighted within: CRISPR-Cas9: A Breakthrough Tool to Repair the DYSF Gene The dysferlin protein plays an essential role in maintaining the integrity of muscle cell membranes, particularly in tissues that endure significant mechanical stress, such as skeletal and cardiac muscles . Encoded by the DYSF gene , dysferlin is indispensable for repairing damaged cell membranes after injury caused by muscle contraction or external forces. This article explores the main locations where dysferlin is produced, its role in muscle repair, and supportive nutritional and therapeutic strategies for individuals with dysferlin deficiency, such as those affected by dysferlinopathies (e.g., Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Type 2B or Miyoshi Myopathy). Currently, there is no definitive answer as to why the severity of dysferlin protein expression or depletion varies. Do pathogens play a role in the methylation o...
Read more

Is ME CFS connected to Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) or Post Polio?

By SWA
Image
Today, I understand why Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) received little attention, particularly in the mid-50s. This complex and debilitating genetic illness was poorly understood, and patients' symptoms were often minimized or even dismissed. For more information, please visit the Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) page on MalaCards . Even now, many neurologists lack detailed knowledge of SMA, and comprehensive examinations mentioned in research are rarely pursued. In 2008, while investigating permanent adrenal insufficiency, an MRI ordered by my endocrinologist unexpectedly revealed Chiari Malformation II. However, surgery in 2009 brought no improvement. In 2010, a DNA test showed a genetic marker in the ACTN3 gene: https://www.malacards.org/search/results?q=ACTN3%20gene%20and%20Spinal%20Muscular%20Atrophy%20(SMA) A 2015 MRI revealed ankylosing spondylitis, multiple Tarlov cysts, stenosis at L4 and L5, spinal canal narrowing, and widespread degenerative changes. Surgery on L4 and L5 ...
Read more