Overgrowth conditions
Overgrowth conditions
Overgrowth syndromes are a rare group of genetic disorders that cause excessive growth before and after birth. This excessive growth can affect almost any part of the baby's body, including bones, muscles, blood vessels, organs, skin and fat.
Our team of specialists, including geneticists and craniofacial experts are here to guide you through the diagnosis, treatment and ongoing care for your child so they can reach their full potential.
Types of Overgrowth conditions
Beckwith-Weideman Syndrome (BWS)
Beckwith-Weideman Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that can affect various aspects of a child's growth and development. BWS is a condition where certain genes don't behave as expected, leading to a range of characteristics.
Characteristics
These may include a larger-than-average tongue, uneven growth on one side of the body, a belly button that sticks out, and low blood sugar levels in newborns.
Sometimes, children with BWS may also have visceromegaly (enlarged internal organs), adrenocortical cytomegaly (enlargement of the adrenal cortex), and kidney abnormalities like medullary dysplasia, nephrocalcinosis, and medullary sponge kidney. There might also be unusual ear features like creases or pits in the back of the ears.
Treatment
Our craniofacial surgeons work alongside geneticists and speech therapists to manage overgrowth and address specific features associated with the syndrome. Surgery may be considered to improve both function and appearance, and our therapists are here to support your child's development every step of the way.
Hemifacial Hypertrophy
Hemifacial Hypertrophy is a rare condition where one side of the child's face appears larger than the other. This overgrowth can involve the jaw, cheek, eye, and other facial structures. It may be associated with other craniofacial syndromes such as Beckwith-Wiedemann, Neurofibromatosis or McCune-Albright syndrome.
Diagnosis
To help us determine treatment, we use imaging like CT scans to precisely assess the extent of overgrowth and its impact on facial structures.
Treatment
Our craniofacial surgeons collaborate closely with other specialists to address the overgrowth surgically to improve function and symmetry in the child's facial features. Perfect symmetry is not possible with this condition.