| Subject | Contents |
| Definition | Ellis-van Creveld syndrome is an inherited disorder with multiple abnormalities and dwarfism . |
| Alternative Names | Chondroectodermal dysplasia |
| Causes, incidence, and risk factors | Ellis-van Creveld is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. It results from mutation in the Ellis van Creveld syndrome gene (EVC). The severity of the disease varies from person to person, but one of the striking features is shortening of the parts of the limbs furthest from the trunk. Higher incidence of the condition is seen among the Amish. |
| Symptoms | Stillbirth (common) Death in early infancy (common) Dwarfism Short extremities, especially forearm and lower leg Hair abnormalities: sparse, absent, fine texture Cleft lip or palate Tooth abnormalities: Peg teethWidely spaced teeth Teeth present at birth ( natal teeth ) Teeth - delayed or absent formationNail abnormalities : absent nails, deformed nails Joint abnormalities: limited range of motion Extra fingers ( polydactyly ) Epispadias or an undescended testicle (cryptorchidism) Congenital heart defects such as "hole in the heart" atrial septal defect ( ASD ) |
| Signs and tests | Skeletal X-ray may show fusion of wrist bones, cone shaped fingertips EchocardiogramUrinalysisChest X-ray showing short ribs Ultrasound may locate an undescended testicle Genetic testing may be available for mutations in the EVC gene |
| Treatment | Treatment depends on which body system is involved and to what extent that body system is involved. The condition itself is not treatable, but many of the complications can be treated. |
| Support Groups | Ellis van Creveld Support Group (800) 644-6735 |
| Expectations (prognosis) | The outcome depends on which body system is involved and to what extent that body system is involved. |
| Complications | Breathing difficulty ( respiratory distress)Congenital heart disease (CHD) especially an atrial septal defect ( ASD )Kidney disease Bone abnormalities |
| Calling your health care provider | Call your health care provider if your child exhibits a collection of some of the above described symptoms. If your family history is positive for Ellis-van Creveld syndrome and your child has any of the above symptoms, a visit to your health care provider is appropriate. |
| Prevention | Genetic counseling is recommended for prospective parents with any family history of Ellis-van Creveld syndrome. |
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