Dwarfism
Bone, Muscle & Joint Conditions
FACTS:
- Dwarfism is a medical or genetic condition that results in an adult height of 4'10" or shorter.
- There are over 200 forms of dwarfism. The most common form results in arms and legs that are disproportionate to head and trunk size.
- Most children with dwarfism are born to parents of normal height.
- Dwarfism does not affect a child's intelligence
- There is no cure for dwarfism; however, some of the associated medical problems can be treated.
- With some adaptations being made for their height difference, children and adults with dwarfism lead normal lives, even having children of their own.
TREATMENT:
- Treat children with dwarfism as you would any other child that age - do not treat them as babies because of their small stature.
- Modify the child's surroundings to help them be as independent as possible. This is very important for development of a positive self-esteem
- Children with dwarfism many have moderate to severe orthopedic difficulties that can result in deformities that lead to a loss of mobility. A good relationship with a doctor who is knowledgeable about dwarfism is very important.
- The following three serious conditions can be related to dwarfism. Please have doctor check a child with dwarfism to rule out these conditions. If symptoms arise, see a doctor immediately.
- Compression of the brain stem - symptoms are failure to thrive and apnea (breathing stops momentarily during sleep)
- Hydrocephalus - excess fluid on the brain (causes head to be abnormally enlarged)
- Obstructive apnea - symptoms are failure to thrive, sleep apnea, sweats and snoring due to a partially blocked airway, frequent night awakenings, excessive sleepiness during the day, inattentiveness
