Metatropic Dwarfism
Metatropic Dwarfism Causes
It is an inherited condition.
Metatropic Dwarfism Definition
Metatropic dwarfism is an inherited skeletal dysplasia due to a defect in endochondral ossification. The abnormalities also show an association with defects in the longitudinal proliferation and maturation of chondrocytes as well as in the production of normal matrix.
Metatropic Dwarfism Diagnosis
Specialists suspect skeletal dysplasia in a patient's obvious physical features such as an unusual configuration of the face or the shape of the skull or an obviously affected parent. Patients may also undergo bone x-rays, however they are not key to a definite diagnosis. Patients are referred to a genetics clinic to confirm diagnosis and for genetic counseling.
Metatropic Dwarfism Symptoms and Signs
Affected individuals have dumbbell-shaped morphological structure of the osseous metaphysic.
Metatropic Dwarfism Treatment
There is no cure for the genetic defects of the condition. Thus, treatment focuses on therapeutic interventions to prevent or reduce pain or physical disability, increase adult height, or mitigate psychosocial stresses as well as enhance social adaptation. Patients may undergo physical therapy by using braces or other orthotic devices, or by surgical procedures. Others use growth hormone, but it is rarely used. Other patients may also undergo limb-lengthening surgery but most affected individuals do not avail of it.