Transient Horner's syndrome in a trauma patient with thoracic epidural analgesia: a case report

Am Surg. 2000 Aug;66(8):756-8.

Abstract

Homer's syndrome, which classically presents as ipsilateral ptosis, meiosis, and facial anhydrosis, may present as a consequence of thoracic epidural analgesia. Pain that limits the patient's ability to maintain adequate pulmonary mechanics may optimally be treated with a thoracic epidural. The importance of recognition of a Horner's syndrome in such a patient is critical in preventing unnecessary anxiety for the patient and potentially embarking on an unnecessary diagnostic workup. The following is a case presentation of a patient who sustained multiple rib fractures in an automobile accident. The patient presented with a Horner's syndrome after a thoracic epidural infusion had begun. This article highlights the importance of early recognition of this benign, transient syndrome and discusses the pathways and potential mechanism of this process.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidents, Traffic
  • Analgesia, Epidural / adverse effects*
  • Horner Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Horner Syndrome / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Time Factors