Caffey's Disease
Caffey's Disease Causes
The cause of this medical condition is still not identified to date.
Caffey's Disease Definition
Caffey's Disease is also known as infantile cortical hyperostosis, which is a very rare form of disease that is characterized by the abnormal thickening of certain bones in the body such as the long bone shafts and mandible.
Caffey's Disease Diagnosis
The clinical symptoms suggest a diagnosis of Caffey's disease, which can be confirmed by X-rays. This may not be apparent during the early phase of the disorder and may simply begin as swellings. Laboratory findings will also show an abnormal increase of enzyme alkaline phosphate levels, which is normally associated with this medical condition.
Caffey's Disease Symptoms and Signs
Among the very striking signs of Caffey's disease is the presence of some soft tissue swellings deeply attached to the bone, along with some prominent cortical thickening of the affected bone. Such swellings would typically appear within the first 90 days of the infant from birth. Facial swellings as other soft tissue swelling may be observed. Other symptoms include hyperirritability, fever, pleurisy, pseudoparalysis, and dysphagia.
Caffey's Disease Treatment
This condition is known to be self-limiting and gradually regress within an estimated period of a several weeks to a few months. This condition often goes unnoticed if it is in benign form. Doctors prescribed steroids for the symptomatic management of this condition and corrective surgery may be required it the bone affected is in the face.