Syndromic Craniofacial

Understanding Syndromic Craniofacial Syndromes

Syndromic Craniofacial Syndromes are a group of congenital anomalies that affect the skull and face of a child. When this syndrome occurs, the skull bones of an infant will not fuse together in the right way at the right time. The syndrome can be dangerous, especially when the skull damages the brain due to improper head expansion.

There are many kinds of syndromic craniofacial syndromes, including Apert Syndrome, Crouzon Syndrome, Pfeiffer Syndrome, and Carpenter Syndrome. Each kind differs in symptoms and development, while some can even affect a child’s hands and limbs.

Genetic mutations usually cause these syndromes. The severity of the syndrome varies from one generation to the next, which means that even if a child has it, his or her siblings have a small chance of obtaining the disorder.

Diagnosing a Craniofacial Syndrome

Some craniofacial syndromes appear during childbirth, while others appear only after a few months. When a baby’s head grows larger than the usual, a pediatrician will carefully observe the growth until it is time to diagnose the condition. A comprehensive syndromic craniofacial diagnosis includes the following procedures.

• A thorough interview that will determine the family’s medical history
• A complete physical examination
• A brain and face MRI or CT scan that will show any evidence of the malformation. A neurosurgical consultation will also follow through.

A syndromic craniofacial diagnosis can take as much as two months. This is necessary to observe the progress of the baby’s skull and the development of his or her face.

Craniofacial Syndrome Treatments from Craniofacial MD

Craniofacial MD provides diagnosis and treatment for a variety of craniofacial syndromes. Headed by Dr. Rodney Schmelzer, our clinic specializes in craniofacial disorders in children. We use the latest techniques when performing a syndromic craniofacial treatment, and make sure that all of our patients receive special attention and care.

Accredited by the American Society of Craniofacial Surgeons, Craniofacial MD has six clinics in Utah, including our main office in Salt Lake City. We continue to expand to provide better service and less travel time to all of our patients.

Contact us today if your child is in need of a syndromic craniofacial treatment. We will be happy to serve you.