Horner syndrome mnemonic

Features of Horner syndrome

The mnemonic

PAM

What each word stands for

  • PPtosis (partial, from Muller's muscle)
  • AAnhidrosis on the affected side
  • MMiosis

Why it matters clinically

Points to a sympathetic lesion, for example Pancoast tumour or carotid dissection.

Where it stops being reliable

Misses enophthalmos and heterochromia in congenital cases.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Horner syndrome mnemonic?

PAM. It helps you recall: Features of Horner syndrome.

What does "P" stand for?

Ptosis (partial, from Muller's muscle)

What does "A" stand for?

Anhidrosis on the affected side

What does "M" stand for?

Miosis

What are all the parts of the PAM mnemonic?

P: Ptosis (partial, from Muller's muscle); A: Anhidrosis on the affected side; M: Miosis.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Horner syndrome in Ophthalmology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Misses enophthalmos and heterochromia in congenital cases.

How is this useful clinically?

Points to a sympathetic lesion, for example Pancoast tumour or carotid dissection.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Ophthalmology question about Horner syndrome.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.