Oromandibular dystonia: A rare clinical entity

Abstract

Oromandibular dystonia (OMD) is a chronic, disabling focal dystonia involving masticatory, facial, pharyngeal, lingual, and lip muscles. OMD interferes with normal orofacial functions, such as deglutition and speech leading to impaired quality of life. Cosmetic disfiguration and social embarrassment faced by these patients owing to the perturbing nature of movements leads to anxiety, depression and social isolation. There are very few reported cases of OMD in Indian literature as the disorders are often misdiagnosed. We present two cases of OMD who were initially misdiagnosed but later responded well to appropriate therapy. A comprehensive evaluation and a holistic approach are crucial for the prompt management of OMD.