Iatrogenic Horner's syndrome in pediatric patients: a report of two cases and a literature review.

Abstract

Horner's syndrome (HS) is a condition characterized by ptosis, miosis, and facial anhidrosis. The causes include trauma and surgical procedures in the cervical, thoracic, or cranial regions, which can impair sympathetic fibers. In the cases presented, both patients - a infant and an adolescent - developed HS after cervical manipulations. In the first case, a child presented with ptosis and miosis in the right eye following venous puncture in the cervical region, with spontaneous resolution. In the second case, an adolescent developed HS after the removal of the submandibular gland and lymph nodes, presenting with ptosis that required surgical correction. These cases highlight the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, including pharmacological tests and imaging studies, to confirm Horner's syndrome and rule out underlying severe causes. The therapeutic approach should be individualized, considering the clinical characteristics of each patient and the potential for recovery from the condition.