Crouzon Syndrome
Crouzon Syndrome Causes
Crouzon syndrome results from disturbances in the development of branchial arches, maxilla and mandible. It affects one in every 25,000 persons. It is not hereditary.
Crouzon Syndrome Definition
The hereditary disorder Crouzon syndrome arises when the bones of a baby's skull and face close early or are incapable of expanding. This abnormal bone development is caused by disturbances in the development of the branchial arches and leads to malformation of the skull and facial features. Typically, individuals with Crouzon syndrome have low-lying ears and malformed ear canals that cause hearing loss.
Crouzon Syndrome Diagnosis
To diagnose the disease, doctors need radiographs, genetic testing and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Crouzon Syndrome Symptoms and Signs
Because of their pronounced features, infants afflicted with Crouzon syndrome are diagnosed with the disease early. The manifestations of the disorder include short and wide head, bulging eyes, beak-like nose, concave-shaped face, and hypertelorism (distance between eyes is bigger than normal. Patients may also encounter problems with their nose, teeth, sinuses, and palate.
Crouzon Syndrome Treatment
Surgery is necessary to prevent the premature fusion of sutures from doing damage to a patient's brain's development. When the closure goes unchecked, Crouzon syndrome may result to mental incapacity and blindness. Surgery is also advisable to correct the malformations in the patient's features.