Compression of sympathetic ganglion by a growing tumor results in which syndrome?

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Multiple Choice

Compression of sympathetic ganglion by a growing tumor results in which syndrome?

Disruption of postganglionic sympathetic innervation to the eye and face from compression of the superior cervical ganglion produces Horner's syndrome. When the sympathetic fibers to the eye are interrupted, you get a triad: ptosis from loss of the Müller muscle, small pupil (miosis) from loss of the iris dilator, and reduced sweating on the face (anhidrosis) due to sudomotor fiber loss. Enophthalmos can also be seen, and this syndrome is classically associated with apical (Pancoast) tumors that invade the sympathetic chain. Other options don’t fit this focal nerve compression picture. Raynaud’s phenomenon involves vasospasm of digital arteries rather than a local disruption of facial and ocular sympathetic fibers. Bell’s palsy is a facial nerve (CN VII) palsy with facial droop, not sympathetic signs. Cushing’s syndrome is an endocrine condition from excess cortisol, not a localized sympathetic ganglion lesion.

Disruption of postganglionic sympathetic innervation to the eye and face from compression of the superior cervical ganglion produces Horner's syndrome. When the sympathetic fibers to the eye are interrupted, you get a triad: ptosis from loss of the Müller muscle, small pupil (miosis) from loss of the iris dilator, and reduced sweating on the face (anhidrosis) due to sudomotor fiber loss. Enophthalmos can also be seen, and this syndrome is classically associated with apical (Pancoast) tumors that invade the sympathetic chain.

Other options don’t fit this focal nerve compression picture. Raynaud’s phenomenon involves vasospasm of digital arteries rather than a local disruption of facial and ocular sympathetic fibers. Bell’s palsy is a facial nerve (CN VII) palsy with facial droop, not sympathetic signs. Cushing’s syndrome is an endocrine condition from excess cortisol, not a localized sympathetic ganglion lesion.

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