PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which syndrome is characterized by miosis, anhidrosis, and ptosis?

1. Superior vena cava syndrome

2. Horner's syndrome

3. Paraneoplastic syndrome

4. Carcinoid syndrome

The correct answer is: Horner's syndrome

Horner's syndrome is characterized by the classic triad of symptoms: miosis (constricted pupil), anhidrosis (lack of sweating on the affected side of the face), and ptosis (drooping of the upper eyelid). This syndrome results from disruption of sympathetic nerves supplying the eye and is commonly associated with lesions along the sympathetic pathway, which may occur due to trauma, tumors (such as a Pancoast tumor), or other pathological conditions impacting the upper chest or neck. Understanding the pathology behind Horner's syndrome helps in recognizing its clinical manifestations. The sympathetic fibers that normally dilate the pupil are impaired, leading to miosis. The interruption of sympathetic pathways also affects the sweat glands, resulting in anhidrosis, and impacts eyelid elevation, causing ptosis. Recognizing this distinct constellation of signs is crucial in diagnosing Horner's syndrome and understanding potential underlying causes. The other options presented are related to different clinical conditions, but they do not feature the specific combination of miosis, anhidrosis, and ptosis that defines Horner's syndrome. For instance, Superior vena cava syndrome involves symptoms related to venous obstruction, while paraneoplastic and carcinoid syndromes include a variety of systemic symptoms associated with malignancies