StatPearls, LLC

  • Bell Palsy
  • Botulinum Toxins
  • Dry Eye Syndromes
  • Facial Nerve Injuries

Crocodile Tears Syndrome

The term crocodile tears is derived from the ancient belief that crocodiles weep after killing their victims. Crocodile tears syndrome, also known as Bogorad syndrome, is a condition characterized by shedding tears while eating or drinking. Most cases are associated with recovery from Bell palsy. This disorder is also referred to as gustatory lacrimation. Crocodile tears syndrome is diagnosed clinically based on a history of aberrant lacrimation during eating, often following facial nerve injury or Bell palsy, with Schirmer testing and imaging considered in select cases. Management includes botulinum toxin injections to reduce tearing, while surgical options such as lacrimal gland excision are reserved for refractory cases. Complications may include incomplete symptom resolution, recurrence after botulinum toxin treatment, and unintended surgical effects like dry eye syndrome. The prognosis is generally favorable, with most patients responding well to botulinum toxin therapy, though repeated treatments or surgery may be necessary for long-term relief. This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to enhance learners’ competence in evaluating and managing crocodile tears syndrome. Participants will gain deeper insights into the condition’s relevant anatomy, etiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, and presentation. The best diagnostic and therapeutic practices will also be discussed. Improved clinical proficiency will enable clinicians to collaborate more effectively with an interprofessional team, enhancing patient outcomes.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.

Credit types

AAPA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsAMA PRA Category 1 Credit™Up to 1.5 creditsNursingUp to 1.5 creditsPharmacyUp to 1.5 credits

MOC types

ABS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABPATH — Lifelong LearningUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Accredited CMEUp to 1.5 pointsABIM — Medical KnowledgeUp to 1.5 pointsABS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABP — Lifelong Learning and Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABOHNS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 pointsABTS — Self-AssessmentUp to 1.5 points

FDA REMS

No

Qualifies for MIPS

No

Target Specialties

Cross-Specialty

Relevant across 7 specialties.

Pricing

Fee varies

This provider typically $49–98

See fees on statpearls.com

Listed by the provider

  • Article / monograph / reference
  • Credit · Up to 1.5 credits
  • MOC · Up to 1.5 points
  • Fee varies · this provider typically $49–98
  • Released
    Sep 1, 2026
  • Last day to claim credit
    Sep 1, 2029 3 years left