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Robinow syndrome
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Robinow syndromeOn this page:
Reviewed March 2008
What is Robinow syndrome?Robinow syndrome is a rare disorder of skeletal development that affects many parts of the body. Researchers have identified two types of Robinow syndrome, which are distinguished by the severity of their signs and symptoms and by their patterns of inheritance. Autosomal recessive Robinow syndrome is characterized by skeletal abnormalities including shortening of the long bones in the arms and legs, particularly the forearms; abnormally short fingers and toes (brachydactyly); wedge-shaped spinal bones (hemivertebrae) leading to an abnormal curvature of the spine (kyphoscoliosis); fused or missing ribs; and short stature. Affected individuals also have distinctive facial features, such as a broad forehead, prominent and widely spaced eyes, a short nose with an upturned tip, and a wide nasal bridge. Other common features of this disorder include underdeveloped genitalia and dental problems (such as crowded teeth and overgrowth of the gums). Kidney and heart defects are also possible. Delayed development occurs in 10 percent to 15 percent of people with this condition, although intelligence is usually normal. The signs and symptoms of autosomal dominant Robinow syndrome are similar to, but tend to be milder than, those of the autosomal recessive form. Abnormalities of the spine and ribs are rarely seen in the autosomal dominant form. How common is Robinow syndrome?Robinow syndrome is rare, with fewer than 200 affected people reported worldwide. The autosomal recessive form of this condition has been identified in families from several countries, including Turkey, Oman, Pakistan, and Brazil. What genes are related to Robinow syndrome?Mutations in the ROR2 gene cause autosomal recessive Robinow syndrome. This gene provides instructions for making a protein whose function is not well understood, although it is essential for normal development before birth. In particular, the ROR2 protein appears to play a critical role in the formation of the skeleton, heart, and genitals. Mutations in the ROR2 gene prevent cells from making any functional ROR2 protein, which disrupts embryonic development and leads to the characteristic features of Robinow syndrome. The genetic cause of autosomal dominant Robinow syndrome is unknown. Abnormalities involving chromosome 1 have been reported in two people with the features of this condition. Further studies will help determine whether a gene associated with autosomal dominant Robinow syndrome is located on chromosome 1. Researchers suspect that mutations in a gene that works with the ROR2 gene during early development may underlie this form of the disorder. Read more about the ROR2 gene. How do people inherit Robinow syndrome?In some families, Robinow syndrome has an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance. Autosomal recessive inheritance means both copies of the gene in each cell have mutations. The parents of an individual with an autosomal recessive condition each carry one copy of the mutated gene, but they typically do not show signs and symptoms of the condition. In other families, Robinow syndrome has an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Autosomal dominant inheritance means one copy of an altered gene in each cell is sufficient to cause the disorder. In some cases, an affected person inherits the mutation from one affected parent. Other cases occur in people with no history of the disorder in their family. Where can I find information about diagnosis or management of Robinow syndrome?These resources address the diagnosis or management of Robinow syndrome and may include treatment providers. You might also find information on the diagnosis or management of Robinow syndrome in Educational resources and Patient support. General information about the diagnosis and management of genetic conditions is available in the Handbook. To locate a healthcare provider, see How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook. Where can I find additional information about Robinow syndrome?You may find the following resources about Robinow syndrome helpful. These materials are written for the general public.
You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for healthcare professionals and researchers.
What other names do people use for Robinow syndrome?
For more information about naming genetic conditions, see the Genetics Home Reference Condition Naming Guidelines and How are genetic conditions and genes named? in the Handbook. What if I still have specific questions about Robinow syndrome?Where can I find general information about genetic conditions?The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful. What glossary definitions help with understanding Robinow syndrome?autosomal ; autosomal dominant ; autosomal recessive ; brachydactyly ; cell ; chromosome ; dwarfism ; embryonic ; gene ; genitalia ; genitals ; gums ; inheritance ; inheritance pattern ; kidney ; kyphoscoliosis ; mutation ; pattern of inheritance ; protein ; recessive ; short stature ; sign ; stature ; symptom ; syndrome You may find definitions for these and many other terms in the Genetics Home Reference Glossary. See also Understanding Medical Terminology.
References (5 links)
The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified healthcare professional. See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook. |