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Achondrogenesis
Achondrogenesis is a rare type of growth hormone deficiency in which there is a defect in the development of bone and cartilage.
Growth hormone deficiency
Growth hormone deficiency means the pituitary gland does not make enough growth hormone.
Causes
Achondrogenesis is inherited, which means it is passed down through families.
Some types are known to be recessive, meaning both parents carry the defective gene. The chance for a subsequent child to be affected is 25%.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include:
- Very short trunk, arms, legs, and neck
- Head appears large in relation to the trunk
- Small lower jaw
- Narrow chest
Exams and Tests
X-rays show bone problems associated with the condition.
Treatment
There is no current therapy. Talk to your health care provider about care decisions.
You may want to seek genetic counseling.
Outlook (Prognosis)
The outcome is most often very poor. Many infants with achondrogenesis are stillborn or die shortly after birth because of breathing problems related to the abnormally small chest.
Breathing problems
Breathing difficulty may involve:Difficult breathingUncomfortable breathingFeeling like you are not getting enough air
Possible Complications
This condition is often fatal early in life.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
This condition is often diagnosed on the first exam of an infant.
References
Backeljauw PF, Dattani MT, Cohen P, et al. Disorders of growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor secretion and action. In: Sperling MA, ed. Pediatric Endocrinology . 4th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2014:chap 10.
Horton WA, Hecht JT. Disorders involving ion transporters. In: Kliegman RM, Stanton BF, St Geme JW, Schor NF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics . 20th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 697.
Review Date: 7/10/2015
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
