[Idiopathic congenital hemihypertrophy: a report on 6 cases]

Idiopathic hemihypertrophy is a specific entity not distinguishable from the numerous other causes of limb overgrowth. In our investigation of six new cases in Valdarno no genetic or other aetiological factors could be recognized. Management of these cases is confined to orthopaedic support. Three cases with ipsilateral benign nephromegaly are presented. Idiopathic hemihypertrophy is often associated with mild mental retardation, genito-urinary anomalies and an oncogenic potential. Regular clinical surveillance for abdominal tumours is recommended.