Is an isolated cleft lip an isolated anomaly?

Area of Science:

• Pediatric medicine
• Craniofacial anomalies
• Genetics

Background:

• Cleft lip and palate (CLP) and cleft palate (CP) are known to be associated with other anomalies.
• Information regarding anomalies associated with isolated cleft lip is limited.
• Previous research indicates children with cleft lip and/or alveolus often experience cleft palate-related problems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of associated anomalies in children with isolated cleft lip.
• To assess the occurrence of cleft palate-related issues in children with cleft lip and/or alveolus.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire was distributed to parents of 214 children diagnosed with cleft lip and/or alveolus.
• 161 questionnaires were returned, yielding a response rate of 75%.
• The study included 91 boys and 70 girls aged 0.3–13.1 years (mean 6.8 ± 3.5 years).

Main Results:

• Speech and/or language problems were reported in 34% of children with ≥6 years of follow-up.
• Ventilation tube insertion was required in 21% of children with ≥6 years of follow-up.
• Additional congenital anomalies were identified in 4% of children with cleft lip and 16% of children with cleft lip/alveolus.

Conclusions:

• An isolated cleft lip is often an isolated anomaly.
• Children with cleft lip and/or alveolus experience cleft palate-related issues more frequently than expected.
• Intensive monitoring and treatment are advised for children with cleft lip and/or alveolus.