[Syndrome of the 1st and 2nd branchial arches. Report of 3 cases]

Three newborn babies were studied in our hospital with the following associated unilateral deformities: macrostomia, hemignathia and anomalies of the external ear. The main symptom was the inability for suction causing some weight loss. These cases could be logically named "syndrome of the first and second branchial arches" because of their common origin. We discuss the pathogenesis and the differences with other diseases including those of hereditary origin. The initial management is discussed.