Frey's syndrome following submandibular gland excision: an unusual postoperative complication

ORL J Otorhinolaryngol Relat Spec. 1998 Nov-Dec;60(6):346-8. doi: 10.1159/000027622.

Abstract

Gustatory sweating and flushing, or Frey's syndrome, is a fairly common complication following surgery or injury to the parotid gland and is thought to be caused by aberrant nerve regeneration. A similar condition has been reported in the literature following surgery to the submandibular region. Since this was first described in 1934, only 7 subsequent cases of submandibular sweating and flushing have been reported. We present a case of a 52-year-old female who underwent excision of the left submandibular gland as a result of chronic sialadenitis. Twelve months following surgery, symptoms indicative of Frey's syndrome were experienced in the operative region. A review of the aetiology and treatment of the condition is described.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Flushing / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Postoperative Complications*
  • Sialadenitis / surgery*
  • Submandibular Gland / surgery*
  • Sweating, Gustatory / etiology*
  • Syndrome