Pediatric Achondroplasia (Dwarfism)
Achondroplasia (dwarfism) is a rare genetic disorder causing cartilage to not form normally.
What is Pediatric Achondroplasia (Dwarfism)?
Achondroplasia is an autosomal dominate disease which means that only one abnormal gene inherited from a single parent can lead to this condition. Boys reach an average height of about 4 feet, 4 inches. Girls reach an average height of about 4 feet, 1 inch.
Risk factors
Most babies born with achondroplasia have no family history of it. However, having a parent with achondroplasia increases the risk of being born with this condition.
What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Achondroplasia (Dwarfism)?
- Bowed lower legs
- Curved lower spine (lordosis or swayback)
- Flat feet
- Large head/forehead
- Poor muscle tone and loose joints
- Short arms, legs and fingers with normal-sized torso
How is Pediatric Achondroplasia (Dwarfism) diagnosed?
- DNA testing
- Fetal ultrasound
Pediatric Achondroplasia (Dwarfism) Doctors and Providers
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Bruno Perocco Braga, MD Pediatric NeurosurgeonAssistant Professor at UT Southwestern Medical CenterRead Bruno Perocco Braga's Full ProfileBruno Perocco Braga, MDPediatric Neurosurgeon
Board Certification:
Brazilian Society of Neurosurgery -
Dale Swift, MD Pediatric NeurosurgeonAssociate Professor at UT Southwestern Medical CenterRead Dale Swift's Full ProfileDale Swift, MDPediatric Neurosurgeon
Board Certification:
American Board of Pediatric Neurological Surgery