M. Orbicularis Oculi Reflex and Blink Reflex of Meige Syndrome

In Blepharospasm, irregular spasms of orbicularis oculi and continuous spasms of M. levator palpebrae superioris were recorded by needle EMG. But, in spite of severe spasms of M. orbicularis oculi, M. levator palpebrae superioris was recorded cyclic spasms in Meige syndro me. This difference between Blepharospasm and Meige syndrome is not clear today. There were the prolonged latency and the increased amplitude in R2 compoment of blink reflex of Meige syndrome. The basal ganglia influences trigeminal nerve, and so, diseases of the basal ganglia affect the blink reflex. Several studies have shown relationship between the blink reflex and the dopamine activity. Our results indicate that there is an abnormal excitatory drive of facial muscle from the abnormal basal ganglia.