Management of Frey’s Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Best Treatment Options
Introduction Frey’s syndrome, also called gustatory sweating , is a condition characterized by sweating, flushing, and warmth over the cheek or temple area during eating or even thinking about food. It most commonly occurs after parotid gland surgery , facial trauma, or infections affecting the parotid region. Pathophysiology (Why It Happens) After injury to the auriculotemporal nerve , regenerating parasympathetic fibers meant for salivary glands mistakenly connect to sweat glands of the skin. As a result, eating stimulates sweating instead of salivation in the affected area. Clinical Features Sweating over cheek, temple, or ear region during meals Facial flushing and warmth Tingling or discomfort while chewing Usually unilateral (one side of the face) Diagnosis Clinical history of parotid surgery or trauma Minor’s starch–iodine test : Iodine is applied to skin, followed by starch Sweating areas turn blue-black , confirming diagnosis Management of F...