The implications of the diagnosis of Robin sequence

"Pierre Robin" is one of the most readily recognized diagnostic eponyms in medicine, yet it is a poorly understood nonspecific grouping of malformations that has no prognostic significance. Although the science of dysmorphology and in particular those who study children with clefts would be reluctant to forego the use of this diagnosis, the reality is that fewer than 20 percent of children with micrognathia and cleft palate should have this term applied. The syndromic diagnoses of 100 children with Robin sequence are presented and discussed in relation to morphologic characteristics. Upper airway obstruction and its relationship to feeding problems is also discussed.