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[Clinical features and follow-up study of neonatal asymmetric crying facies]
Cheng-Qiu Lu1, Xiao-Lei Zhuang, Chen Chu
1Gynecology and Obstetrics Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
Insights
Neonatal asymmetric crying facies (ACF) often co-occurs with other congenital malformations. While short-term outcomes for infants with ACF are generally good, long-term monitoring is essential for optimal prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Clinical Genetics
Context:
- Asymmetric crying facies (ACF) is a congenital condition affecting facial muscle development.
- Early recognition and understanding of associated conditions are crucial for infant care.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the clinical characteristics of neonatal asymmetric crying facies (ACF).
- To assess the short-term outcomes of infants diagnosed with ACF.
- To improve the diagnostic recognition of ACF.
Summary:
- A retrospective study of 11 infants with ACF identified associations with other congenital malformations, including ear malformations, congenital heart disease, and limb anomalies.
- Maternal and paternal age, parity, and history of diabetes mellitus were noted.
- Neurological assessments at corrected gestational ages of 44 weeks and 3 months showed generally satisfactory development, despite persistent ACF.
Impact:
- ACF is frequently linked to other congenital anomalies, highlighting the need for comprehensive screening.
- Short-term outcomes for infants with ACF appear favorable.
- Long-term follow-up and interdisciplinary collaboration are recommended to optimize the prognosis for affected infants.
Objective:
To evaluate the clinical characteristics and short-term outcomes of neonatal asymmetric crying facies (ACF), in order to improve recognition of the disease.
Methods:
The clinical data of 11 infants with ACF between January 2010 and February 2012 were retrospectively studied. Physical and neurological development were followed up at correct gestational age 44 weeks and 3 months.
Results:
Of the 11 infants with ACF, 4 had ipsilateral ear malformation, 2 had congenital heart disease and 1 had syndactyly and polydactyly. Of the 11 infants, 8 were male and 3 were female. Eight infants presented with lesions on the left side and 3 presented with lesions on the right. The fathers were aged over 35 in 8 cases and the mothers were over 30 in 7 cases. Eight mothers had a history of at least 3 pregnancies and 2 infants were born to mothers with diabetes mellitus. Physical index was below P10 in 1 case and 2 cases showed a low NBNA score and mild abnormal GMs (poor repertoire PR) during the writhing period at correct gestational age 44 weeks. Physical index was between P10-P90 and GM assessment during the fidgety period showed normal movements in all infants at correct gestational age 3 months, but they still had ACF.
Conclusions:
ACF is associated with a high rate of other congenital malformations. The short-term outcomes of ACF infants are satisfactory, but long-term follow-up and interdisciplinary cooperation are necessary to improve prognosis.
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