Growth and development in thanatophoric dysplasia - an update 25 years later

Sarah M Nikkel1, Nathalie Major2, W James King2

  • 1Department of Genetics Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Ottawa, Ontario, Canada ; Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

Clinical Case Reports
|October 31, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Thanatophoric dysplasia is usually fatal in newborns. Survivors face seizures, stenosis, ventilator needs, and developmental delays, requiring family awareness for management.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Genetics
  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Neonatology

Background:

  • Thanatophoric dysplasia (TD) is a severe skeletal disorder.
  • It is characterized by extreme micromelia, a narrow thorax, and a large head.
  • TD is typically lethal in the neonatal period.

Observation:

  • Rare cases of TD survival present unique challenges.
  • These individuals may develop neurological and developmental issues.
  • Craniocervical stenosis is a significant concern.

Findings:

  • Neonatal survivors of thanatophoric dysplasia can experience seizures.
  • Progressive craniocervical stenosis is observed in survivors.
  • Motor and cognitive limitations are common in these rare cases.

Implications:

  • Early recognition of potential complications is crucial for survivors.
  • Families require comprehensive counseling regarding long-term care needs.
  • Management plans must address neurological, respiratory, and developmental support.
Abstract

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