Skeletal Dysplasia - What is and Definition
Skeletal Dysplasia - Dysfunctional growth of the SKELETON such that the person is of significantly short stature. There are numerous forms of skeletal dysplasia, commonly and collectively called dwarfism, most of which are hereditary. Skeletal dysplasia may also occur as a result of HORMONE deficiencies during childhood. Each type of skeletal dysplasia presents characteristic symptoms. In general, skeletal dysplasias result in extremely short stature. The structures of the skeleton are nearly always disproportionate. Disorders of growth that are metabolic cause proportionate smallness. HORMONE THERAPY may increase skeletal growth when the cause is endocrine or metabolic. There are no treatments to alter the skeleton when the cause of the dysplasia is genetic.
See also ACHONDROPLASIA; GENETIC DISORDERS; INHERITANCE PATTERN; OSTEOGENESIS IMPERFECTA; RICKETS; SCURVY.
