Purpose: To describe 10 patients with Morbihan syndrome, a rare condition characterized by the slow appearance of erythema and solid edema on the upper portion of the face, and review the literature.
Methods: Retrospective case series and review.
Results: The majority of patients were male (80%), and the mean age at presentation was 67 years (range, 48-88 years); 60% had asymmetrical disease (affecting mainly the right side). All subjects underwent a lid biopsy to support the diagnosis of Morbihan syndrome, which showed features of inflammation and vascular dysfunction, highly suggestive of a rosacea histological picture complicated by chronic lymphoedema. A range of medical and surgical treatment were used with variable success. The most effective ones included oral isotretinoin, intralesional triamcinolone injections, and debulking surgery.
Conclusions: Morbihan syndrome is a rare and chronic condition. It can be difficult to treat and may require a range of interventions.