Neuropsychological Profile in a Young Patient with Möbius Syndrome and Executive Dysfunction: A Case Study with a Diagnostic Hypothesis of ADHD

Abstract

Möbius Syndrome is a rare congenital neurological condition characterized by paralysis of the seventh cranial nerve, which may affect facial expressivity and socioemotional adjustment. Although widely described from a motor perspective, its neuropsychological implications remain poorly explored. The present study describes the neuropsychological profile of an 18-year-old male with a diagnosis of Möbius Syndrome who was referred for investigation of a neurodevelopmental disorder. Standardized measures of intelligence, attention, executive functions, memory, language, and academic performance were administered. The results indicated average-to-above-average intellectual functioning, with preserved abstract reasoning, working memory, and academic skills. However, significant impairments were identified in selective attention and inhibitory control, associated with impulsivity and difficulties in behavioral self-regulation. The observed pattern suggests focal executive dysfunction in the inhibitory component, consistent with a subprofile described in the literature on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These findings reinforce the importance of neuropsychological assessment in characterizing heterogeneous executive profiles and in guiding individualized intervention planning.