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Pierre Robin syndrome

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Illustrations

Infant hard and soft palates
Infant hard and soft palates

Alternative Names    Return to top

Robin sequence

Definition    Return to top

Pierre Robin syndrome is a condition present at birth in which an infant has a very small lower jaw, a tongue that tends to fall back and downward, and a soft cleft palate.

The syndrome is also called Pierre Robin complex or sequence.

Causes    Return to top

The specific causes of Pierre Robin syndrome are unknown. It may be part of many genetic syndromes. The lower jaw develops slowly over the first few months of life before birth, but speeds up during the first year after birth. The falling back of the tongue may cause choking episodes and feeding and breathing difficulties, especially when the child sleeps.

Symptoms    Return to top

Exams and Tests    Return to top

A health care provider can usually diagnose this condition during a physical exam. Consulting with a genetics specialist can rule out other problems linked to this syndrome.

Treatment    Return to top

Infants with this condition should NOT be put on their back, so that the tongue does not fall back into the airway.

Problems associated with this syndrome tend to get better over the first few years as the lower jaw grows to a more normal size.

In moderate cases, the patient requires placement of a tube through the nose and into the airway to avoid airway blockage. In severe cases, surgery is needed to prevent upper airway obstruction. A tracheostomy (surgery to make a hole in the windpipe) is sometimes required.

Feeding must be done very carefully to avoid choking and breathing liquids into the airway.

Support Groups    Return to top

For support and information, see www.pierrerobin.org and www.cleftline.org.

Outlook (Prognosis)    Return to top

Choking and feeding problems may go away on their own as the jaw grows. There is a significant risk of problems if the airway is not protected against blockage.

Possible Complications    Return to top

When to Contact a Medical Professional    Return to top

This condition is often seen at birth.

Call if choking episodes or breathing problems increase in frequency. Airway blockage may cause a high-pitched crowing noise when the child breathes in. It can also lead to blueness of the skin (cyanosis).

Also call if other breathing problems occur.

Prevention    Return to top

There is no known prevention. Treatment may reduce the number of episodes of breathing problems and choking.

Update Date: 10/24/2007

Updated by: James L. Demetroulakos, M.D., F.A.C.S., Department of Otolaryngology, North Shore Medical Center, Salem, MA. Clinical Instructor in Otology and Laryngology, Harvard Medical School. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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