Goldenhar Syndrome
Goldenhar syndrome is a condition that typically causes congenital (at birth) physical abnormalities in the face or spinal column. Goldenhar syndrome is caused by a disruption of facial development, which usually occurs between the 8th and 12th weeks of pregnancy. Goldenhar syndrome can result in facial abnormalities including abnormal eyes, ears, mouth and facial bones.
These facial abnormalities can occur on one or both sides of the face. Commonly, the abnormalities are limited to one side of the face and the birth defect is known as hemifacial microsimia. Hemifacial microsimia can occur along with or independent from Goldenhar syndrome, but the two are thought to have similar causes.
Goldenhar syndrome may result in speech and hearing problems. Treatments depend on the severity of the syndrome and include surgery and physical therapy. With treatment people usually have a normal life span with a normal intelligence level. There is no known cause of Goldenhar syndrome.
Recently Answered
- Q What is Goldenhar syndrome?
-
Goldenhar syndrome is a birth defect that causes abnormal growth of tissue and bones in the face and skull. Symptoms usually affect one side of the face, although they can affect both sides. A common symptom is one ear that is underdeveloped or missing.... Full Answer
2 Answers
A
- Q How is Goldenhar syndrome diagnosed?
-
Prenatal ultrasounds are sometimes used to detect early signs of Goldenhar syndrome. At birth, a physical examination, x-rays, computer tomography scan known as a CT scan, as well as, reviewing the family medical history can help doctors diagnose... Full Answer
2 Answers
A
- Q What causes Goldenhar Syndrome?
-
The exact cause of Goldenhar syndrome is unknown. It is a birth defect and like other birth defects it's believed to be influenced by environmental factors such as such as exposure to alcohol, certain medications, diseases, infections, or poor diet. For... Full Answer
2 Answers
A
- Q What are common symptoms of Goldenhar syndrome?
-
Goldenhar syndrome causes abnormal growth of tissue and bones in the face and skull. Symptoms range in type and severity and may include: underdeveloped or missing outer ear tissue cleft lip, cleft palate benign growths around and/or on the eyes... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What are the treatment options for Goldenhar syndrome?
-
Treatment options, including plastic and reconstructive surgeries vary because Goldenhar symptoms can vary. Depending upon the symptoms, reconstructive surgeries can help correct irregularly formed or missing facial features. Surgeries are often spread... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q Are symptoms of Goldenhar syndrome always obvious?
-
Physical symptoms of Goldenhar syndrome can vary greatly. Symptoms such as cleft palate or cleft lip are more obvious than the skin tags which can appear around the ears. Your doctor can diagnose the syndrome. Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q Can symptoms of Goldenhar syndrome develop later in life?
-
Goldenhar syndrome is a birth defect. Symptoms are present at birth. As a child grows, their symptoms will become more pronounced if left untreated. In less severe cases, symptoms such as skin tags may go undiagnosed for months, if at all. New symptoms... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q Should I talk to my doctor about my childs Goldenhar symptoms?
-
If your child is born with symptoms of Goldenhar syndrome, you should talk to your doctor. Symptoms may include an irregularly-shaped skull, abnormally-shaped or missing outer ear, uneven facial features, cleft lip and/or palate, and growths on one or... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q What increases the risk for Goldenhar syndrome?
-
The exact cause of Goldenhar syndrome is unknown. Factors believed to increase the risk of a fetus developing Goldenhar syndrome are related to many pregnancy issues such as :- poor diet during pregnancy - vitamin deficiencies (low folic acid... Full Answer
1 Answer
A
- Q Is there a vaccine to prevent Goldenhar syndrome?
-
Goldenhar syndrome is a type of birth defect. The exact cause of it is unknown. There is currently no vaccine to prevent Goldenhar syndrome. Full Answer
1 Answer
A
