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Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) is an inherited condition that is associated with an increased risk of growths along the lining of the gastrointestinal tract (called hamartomatous polyps) and certain types of cancer. Most affected people also have characteristic dark blue to dark brown macules around the mouth, eyes, and nostrils; near the anus (perianal); and on…

Crouzon syndrome is a disorder characterized by early fusion of certain skull bones (craniosynostosis). This prevents normal growth of the skull, which can affect the shape of the head and face. Signs and symptoms of Crouzon syndrome may include wide-set, bulging eyes; strabismus (misalignment of the eyes); a small, “beak-shaped” nose; and an underdeveloped upper…

Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis type 3 (PFIC3) is a rare condition that affects the liver. People with this condition generally develop signs and symptoms during late infancy or early childhood, which may include severe itching, jaundice, failure to thrive, portal hypertension (high blood pressure in the vein that provides blood to the liver) and hepatosplenomegaly…

16p11.2 deletion syndrome is a condition caused by a missing piece (deletion) on a specific region of chromosome 16 designated as p11.2. People with 16p11.2 deletion syndrome usually have developmental delay and intellectual disability. Most also have at least some features of autism spectrum disorder. Some affected people have minor physical abnormalities; however, signs and…

Neurodegeneration with brain iron accumulation (NBIA) is a group of inherited neurologic disorders in which iron accumulates in the basal ganglia. Symptoms include progressive dystonia (a movement disorder resulting in muscular spasms, twisting, and repetitive movements) spasticity, parkinsonism (slurred or slow speech, stiffness of the muscles, slow movement, and visible tremors), inability to coordinate movements (ataxia),…

Pemphigus vulgaris is an autoimmune disorder that involves blistering and erosion of the skin and mucous membranes. It occurs almost exclusively in middle-aged or older people. The primary lesion of pemphigus vulgaris is a soft blister filled with clear fluid that appears on healthy or irritated skin. Many cases begin with blisters in the mouth, followed…

Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) refers to a group of skin conditions that cause constant inflammation and scaling of the skin.[1] People with PRP have reddish, scaly patches that may occur everywhere on the body, or only on certain areas.[2][3] Some people with PRP also develop thickened skin on the underside of the hands and feet…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 70 Definition Proximal spinal muscular atrophies are a group of neuromuscular disorders characterized by progressive muscle weakness resulting from the degeneration and loss of the lower motor neurons in the spinal cord and the brain…

Dense deposit disease (DDD) is a condition that primarily affects kidney function. Signs and symptoms usually start between the ages of 5 and 15 but may also begin in adulthood. The major features of DDD are due to kidney malfunction, and often include proteinuria; hematuria; reduced amounts of urine; low levels of protein in the blood;…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 976 Definition A rare genetic nephropathy secondary to a disorder of purine metabolism characterized by the formation and hyperexcretion of 2,8-dihydroxyadenine (2,8-DHA) in urine, causing urolithiasis and crystalline nephropathy. Epidemiology Prevalence is estimated at 1/50,000…

McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS) is a disorder that affects the skin, skeleton, and certain endocrine organs (hormone-producing tissues). Cafe-au-lait spots of the skin are common and are usually the first apparent sign of MAS. The main skeletal feature is fibrous dysplasia, which ranges in severity and can cause various complications.[1] Early skeletal symptoms may include limping, pain, or…

Factor X deficiency is a rare disorder that affects the blood’s ability to clot. The severity of the disorder and the associated signs and symptoms can vary significantly from person to person. Common features of factor X deficiency may include easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums, blood in the urine, and prolonged bleeding after minor…

Gitelman syndrome is a kidney function disorder that causes an imbalance of charged atoms (ions) in the body, including ions of potassium, magnesium, and calcium.[1] It is usually diagnosed during late childhood or adulthood.[2] More common symptoms include fatigue, salt craving, thirst, frequent urination, muscle cramping, muscle weakness, dizziness, tingling or numbness, low blood pressure,…

Autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1 is an inherited autoimmune condition that affects many of the body’s organs. Symptoms often begin in childhood or adolescence and may include mucocutaneous candidiasis, hypoparathyroidism, and Addison disease. This syndrome can cause a variety of additional signs and symptoms, such as weak teeth (enamel hypoplasia) and chronic diarrhea or constipation.[1] Also,…

Autosomal domiant spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia tarda (autosomal dominant SEDT) is an inherited condition that affects bone growth. Signs and symptoms are generally physically apparent by puberty; however, abnormalities may be seen on X-ray at an earlier age. Affected people may have skeletal abnormalities, short stature (with a short neck and trunk, specifically), scoliosis, kyphosis, lumbar hyperlordosis…

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Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is characterized by the growth of benign tumors throughout the body, including in the heart, brain, and kidneys. Certain symptoms develop before to birth, such as heart tumors (rhabdomyoma). Other symptoms become more obvious in childhood, such as developmental delay and skin changes. Lung and kidney tumors are more likely to develop…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 79306 Definition PFIC1, a type of progressive familial intrahepathic cholestasis (PFIC, see this term), is an infantile hereditary disorder in bile formation that is hepatocellular in origin and associated with extrahepatic features. Epidemiology Estimated prevalence…

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Romano-Ward syndrome is the most common form of inherited long QT syndrome. Symptoms include arrhythmia, fainting, cardiac arrest, and sudden death. There are six different types of this syndrome, long QT 1 through 6. Each type is caused by a change in a different gene. The most prevalent form of long QT syndrome is long QT type 1. Long QT…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 75377 Definition Central areolar choroidal dystrophy (CACD) is a hereditary macular disorder, usually presenting between the ages of 30-60, characterized by a large area of atrophy in the centre of the macula and the loss…

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Congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD) refers to a group of inherited conditions that affect the muscles and are present at birth or in early infancy. The severity of the condition, the associated signs and symptoms and the disease progression vary significantly by type. Common features include hypotonia; progressive muscle weakness and degeneration (atrophy); joint contractures; and…

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic condition that affects many parts of the body. Infants with PWS have severe hypotonia (low muscle tone), feeding difficulties, and slow growth. In later infancy or early childhood, affected children typically begin to eat excessively and become obese. Other signs and symptoms often include short stature, hypogonadism, developmental delays,…

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Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD) affect the spinal cord and optic nerves (nerves that carry visual messages to and from the brain). Symptoms include pain, weakness, bowel and bladder problems, and temporary vision loss. NMOSD usually occurs in adulthood, but symptoms may start at any age. Some people have a single attack of symptoms lasting months, but…

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency is one of a group of disorders (collectively called congenital adrenal hyperplasia) that affect the adrenal glands. In this condition, the adrenal glands produce excess androgens (male sex hormones). This condition is caused by mutations in the CYP11B1 gene and is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. There are two…

Multiple endocrine neoplasia, type 1 (MEN1) causes the growth of tumors in both the endocrine system (the body’s network of hormone-producing glands) and non-endocrine system. Symptoms of MEN1 include tumors of the parathyroid gland, the pituitary gland, and the pancreas, although other glands may be involved as well. These tumors are often “functional” and secrete excess…

MYH9-related thrombocytopenia (MYH9RD) is a genetic condition caused by mutations in the MYH9 gene and is characterized by large platelets and thrombocytopenia (low number of platelets) which increases the risk for mild to serious bleeding in the body or in the skin. Young-adult onset high frequency sensorineural hearing loss, presenile (early) cataract, and kidney disease…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 1146 Definition Digitotalar dysmorphism, also known as distal arthrogryposis type 1 (DA1), is an autosomal dominant congenital anomaly characterized by contractures of the distal regions of the hands and feet with no facial involvement or…

Mucopolysaccharidosis type IVA (MPS IVA, also called Morquio syndrome, type A) is a metabolic condition that primarily affects the skeleton. The severity, age of onset, and associated symptoms vary significantly from person to person and range from a severe and rapidly progressive, early-onset form to a slowly progressive, later-onset form. The severe form is usually…

Generalized pustular psoriasis is a severe inflammatory skin condition that can be life-threatening. Affected people develop episodes of red and tender skin with widespread pustules throughout their body. This is generally accompanied by fever, chills, headache, rapid pulse rate, loss of appetite, nausea and muscle weakness. The condition generally resolves within days or weeks; however,…

Stargardt disease is a genetic eye disorder that causes progressive vision loss. It affects the macula, an area of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. Vision loss is due to abnormal accumulation of a fatty yellow pigment (lipofuscin) in the cells within the macula. People with Stargardt disease also have problems with night vision,…

Treacher Collins syndrome (TCS) is a condition that affects the development of bones and other tissues of the face. The signs and symptoms vary greatly, ranging from almost unnoticeable to severe. Most affected people have underdeveloped facial bones, particularly the cheek bones, and a very small jaw and chin (micrognathia). Other features may include cleft…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 616 Definition Medulloblastoma (MB) is an embryonic tumor of the neuroepithelial tissue and the most frequent primary pediatric solid malignancy. MB represents a heterogeneous group of cerebellar tumors characterized clinically by increased intracranial pressure and…

Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB (MPS IIIB) is an genetic disorder that makes the body unable to break down large sugar molecules called glycosaminoglycans (GAGs, formerly called mucopolysaccharides).[1][2] Specifically, people with this condition are unable to break down a GAG called heparan sulfate.[2] Affected individuals can have severe neurological symptoms, including progressive dementia, aggressive behavior, hyperactivity, seizures, deafness, loss…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 521 Definition Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) is the most common myeloproliferative disorder accounting for 15-20% of all leukaemia cases. Epidemiology Its annual incidence has been estimated at between 1 and 1.5 cases per 100,000 and…

Soft tissue sarcoma is a form of cancer that occurs due to abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth of the “soft tissues” of the body. These tissues connect, support and surround other body parts and may include muscle, fat, blood vessels, lymph vessels, nerves, tendons and the lining of joints. Many people with early soft tissue…

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Sideroblastic anemia pyridoxine-refractory autosomal recessive is an inherited blood disorder that is characterized by an impaired ability of the bone marrow to produce normal red blood cells. The iron inside red blood cells is inadequately used to make hemoglobin, despite adequate or increased amounts of iron. Abnormal red blood cells called sideroblasts are found in the…

Saethre-Chotzen syndrome is a genetic condition characterized by the premature fusion of certain skull bones (craniosynostosis). This early fusion prevents the skull from growing normally and affects the shape and symmetry of the head and face. Other features may include webbing of certain fingers or toes (syndactyly), small or unusually shaped ears, short stature, and…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 1203 Definition Duodenal atresia is an embryopathy of the cranial intestine that leads to a complete absence of the duodenal lumen. Epidemiology The incidence of duodenal atresia is between 1/10,000 and 1/6,000 live births, with…

A schwannoma is a tumor of the peripheral nervous system or nerve root. A schwannoma develops from cells called Schwann cells, a type of cell that wraps itself around peripheral nerves and provides protection and support. Schwannomas are almost always benign (not cancerous), but rarely, may become cancerous (a malignant schwannoma).[1][2] Symptoms of a schwannoma…

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a group of genetic disorders that mainly affect the bones. People with this condition have bones that break easily, often from little or no trauma, however, severity varies among affected people. Multiple fractures are common, and in severe cases, can even occur before birth. Milder cases may involve only a few…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 99842 Definition Leukocyte adhesion deficiency type I (LAD-I) is a form of LAD (see this term) characterized by life-threatening, recurrent bacterial infections. Epidemiology LAD-I affects 1 individual per million. Clinical description Usually the first signs…

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive skin cancer. It usually develops as a single, painless, bump on sun-exposed skin. The bump may be skin-colored or red-violet, and tends to grow rapidly over weeks to months. It may spread quickly to surrounding tissues, nearby lymph nodes, or more distant parts of the body. Factors associated with…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 2023 Definition An aggressive sarcoma of soft tissues or bone that can arise from any part of the body, clinically presenting as swelling, mass, pain, pathological fracture and occasional systemic features and is characterized by…

Meningiomas are tumors that originate in the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are not cancerous (benign), though a minority of meningiomas can be classified as atypical or cancerous (malignant).[1][2] Though rare, malignant meningiomas can be highly aggressive.[2] However, even benign meningiomas can cause problems if their growth affects neighboring…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 90793 Definition A very rare form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) characterized by glucocorticoid deficiency, hypergonadotrophic hypogonadism and severe hypokalemic hypertension. Epidemiology It accounts for approximately 1% of all CAH cases. The prevalence is therefore…

Pycnodysostosis impacts bone growth and is present from birth. Symptoms include a large head and high forehead, undeveloped facial bones, and short fingers and toes. People with pycnodysostosis may have short stature, dental abnormalities, brittle bones, and delayed closure of the skull bones. Bones may become more brittle with age. Other complications like trouble breathing during…

Poland syndrome is characterized by an underdeveloped or absent chest muscle on one side of the body, absence of the breastbone portion (sternal) of the chest muscle, and webbing of the fingers of the hand on the same side. The cause of Poland syndrome is not known. This syndrome is nearly always sporadic. It tends to occur on the right side and…

Pseudoachondroplasia is an inherited disorder of bone growth which is characterized by short stature. Other features include short arms and legs, a waddling walk, early-onset joint pain (osteoarthritis), and a limited range of motion at the elbows and hips. Intelligence, facial features and head size are normal. Pseudoachondroplasia is caused by mutations in the COMP gene. This…

Cyclic neutropenia is a rare blood disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of abnormally low levels of neutrophils (a type of white blood cell) in the body. Neutrophils are instrumental in fighting off infection by surrounding and destroying bacteria that enter the body. Symptoms of cyclic neutropenia may include fever, a general feeling of ill health, and/or sores (ulcers)…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 99789 Definition Dentin dysplasia type I (DD-I) is a rare form of dentin dysplasia (DD, see this term) characterized by sharp conical short roots or rootless teeth. Epidemiology Prevalence of DD-I is reported to be…

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans is an uncommon cancer in which tumors arise in the deeper layers of skin. The tumor usually starts as a small, firm patch of skin; it may be purplish, reddish, or flesh-colored. It is commonly found on the torso, usually in the shoulder and chest area. The tumor typically grows slowly but has…

Sudden sensorineural deafness is a condition that is characterized by rapid, unexplained hearing loss. More specifically, affected people experience a reduction in hearing of greater than 30 decibels, which may occur all at once or over several days. In most cases, only one ear is affected. People with sudden sensorineural deafness often become dizzy, have…

Early-onset generalized dystonia is a neurologic movement disorder that usually begins in childhood or adolescence. This is the most common hereditary form of dystonia.[1] Symptoms start in one part of the body (usually an arm, foot, or leg) and are usually first apparent with actions such as writing or walking. With time, the contractions may spread…

Adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) is an inflammatory condition that affects multiple organs. The most common symptoms are high fevers, skin rash, arthritis, and high levels of ferritin, a protein that stores iron in the blood. Other symptoms include an enlarged spleen and lymph nodes, joint pain, and sore throat. In some cases, symptoms may be…

EEC syndrome (Ectrodactyly-Ectodermal DysplasiaCleft Lip/Palate) is a rare form of ectodermal dysplasia. The symptoms can vary from mild to severe and most commonly include missing or irregular fingers and/or toes (ectrodactyly or split hand/foot malformation); abnormalities of the hair and glands; cleft lip and/or palate; distinctive facial features; and abnormalities of the eyes and urinary…

Osteopetrosis refers to a group of rare, inherited skeletal disorders characterized by increased bone density and abnormal bone growth.[1][2] Symptoms and severity can vary greatly, ranging from neonatal onset with life-threatening complications (such as bone marrow failure) to the incidental finding of osteopetrosis on X-ray. Depending on severity and age of onset, features may include fractures, short stature,…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 36899 Definition Myoclonusdystonia syndrome (MDS) is a rare movement disorder characterized by mild to moderate dystonia along with ‘lightning-like’ myoclonic jerks. Epidemiology The estimated prevalence of MDS in Europe is 1/500,000. Clinical description Disease onset…

Alpha-thalassemia is a blood disorder that reduces the body’s production of hemoglobin. Affected people have anemia, which can cause pale skin, weakness, fatigue, and more serious complications. Two types of alpha-thalassemia can cause health problems: the more severe type is known as Hb Bart syndrome; the milder form is called HbH disease. Hb Bart syndrome…

Hydrocephalus due to congenital stenosis of aqueduct of sylvius (HSAS) is a form of L1 syndrome, which is an inherited disorder that primarily affects the nervous system. Males with HSAS are typically born with severe hydrocephalus and adducted thumbs (bent towards the palm). Other sign and symptoms of the condition include severe intellectual disability and…

Cat scratch disease (CSD) is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lymph nodes. It is typically caused by the bacteria bartonella (Bartonella henselae). It is usually transmitted by being scratched or bitten by a cat, but rarely, no scratch or bite is involved.[1] Symptoms frequently include the formation of a small bump at the site of…

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2B (LGMD2B) is one type of limb-girdle muscular dystrophy. These diseases affect the voluntary muscles, which are the muscles that are moved on purpose, such as the arms, legs, fingers, toes, and facial muscles. Specifically, LGMD2B is a slowly progressive disease that causes muscle weakness and wasting (atrophy) of the pelvic…

Sotos syndrome is a condition characterized mainly by distinctive facial features; overgrowth in childhood; and learning disabilities or delayed development. Facial features may include a long, narrow face; a high forehead; flushed (reddened) cheeks; a small, pointed chin; and down-slanting palpebral fissures. Affected infants and children tend to grow quickly; they are significantly taller than…

Congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS) are a group of genetic conditions that all include muscle weakness that gets worse with physical activity. [1][2][3][4] There are many subtypes of CMS with different symptoms, severity, and treatments. Most people with CMS develop symptoms in infancy or by early childhood, but the age at which symptoms begin can vary. Symptoms…

Congenital fibrosis of extraocular muscles (CFEOM) refers to a group of rare conditions that affect the normal development and function of the muscles that control eye movement and position. In general, people affected by these conditions are unable to move their eyes in certain directions and often have strabismus and/or droopy eyelids (ptosis); however, the severity…

Medium-chain acyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency (MCADD) is an inherited metabolic disorder that prevents the body from converting certain fats to energy, particularly during periods without food (fasting). People with MCADD do not have enough of an enzyme needed to metabolize a group of fats called medium-chain fatty acids. Signs and symptoms usually begin by early…

AL amyloidosisis the most common form of amyloidosis, a group of disorders in which an abnormal protein called amyloid builds up in tissues and organs. The signs and symptoms of AL amyloidosis vary among patients because the build up may occur in the tongue, intestines, muscles, joints, nerves, skin, ligaments, heart, liver, spleen, or kidneys. To diagnose AL…

Alström syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects many body systems.[1][2] Symptoms develop gradually, beginning in infancy, and can be variable. In childhood, the disorder is generally characterized by vision and hearing abnormalities, childhood obesity, and heart disease (cardiomyopathy). Over time, diabetes mellitus, liver problems, and slowly progressive kidney dysfunction which can lead to kidney…

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic, progressive liver disease in which the bile ducts become inflamed and damaged.[1][2][3] This leads to the buildup of bile and causes liver problems such as scarring, cirrhosis (scarring and poor liver function), and eventual liver failure.[1] PBC is more common in women.[1][3][4] Many people do not have symptoms when…

Fuchs heterochromic iridocyclitis (FHI) is an unusual form of chronic (long-lasting) uveitis. Uveitis is swelling and irritation of the middle layer of the eye. Diagnosis of FHI is considered in people with floaters, vision loss, and heterochromia. FHI often affects young adults and most often involves a single eye. People with FHI are at risk…

Ataxia with vitamin E deficiency (AVED) is a progressive disease affecting motor control and movement. Symptoms of AVED include slurred speech (dysarthria), difficulty coordinating movements (ataxia), numbness in the hands and feet (peripheral neuropathy), and progressive leg weakness. Some affected individuals may experience vision loss due to damage to the back of the eye (retinitis…

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is an inherited condition that affects many parts of the body. People with this syndrome have progressive visual impairment due to cone-rod dystrophy; extra fingers or toes (polydactyly); truncal obesity; decreased function of the male gonads (hypogonadism); kidney abnormalities; and learning difficulties.[1] Mutations in many genes are known to cause Bardet-Biedl syndrome and inheritance is…

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a disorder that primarily affects children, but is also found in adults of all ages. People with LCH produce too many Langerhans cells or histiocytes, a form of white blood cell found in healthy people that is supposed to protect the body from infection. In people with LCH, these cells multiply excessively and build up…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 93473 Definition Hurler syndrome is the most severe form of mucopolysaccharidosis type 1 (MPS1; see this term), a rare lysosomal storage disease, characterized by skeletal abnormalities, cognitive impairment, heart disease, respiratory problems, enlarged liver and…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 119 Definition A subtype of autosomal recessive limb girdle muscular dystrophy characterized by a childhood to adolescent onset of progressive pelvicand shoulder-girdle muscle weakness, particularly affecting the pelvic girdle (adductors and flexors of hip). Usually…

Sarcosinemia is a rare inborn error of metabolism characterized by an increased level of the amino acid sarcosine in the blood and urine.[1] It is reportedly most likely benign, unrelated to significant signs or symptoms.[2][3][4] A number of children have been detected by newborn screening and have remained symptom-free.[5] Some reports have associated sarcosinemia with various symptoms…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 42062 Definition Iminoglycinuria is a metabolic disorder resulting from defective renal tube reabsorption of proline, hydroxyproline and glycine. The prevalence is estimated at around 1 in 15 000. The disorder is usually asymptomatic and is…

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (lim-FAN-je-o-LI-o-MI-o-ma-TO-sis), or LAM, is a rare cystic lung disease that mostly affects women in their mid-forties. In LAM, an unusual type of cell begins to grow out of control throughout the body, including in the lungs, lymph nodes and vessels, and kidneys. Over time, these LAM cells form cysts and clusters of cells, which…

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Cowden syndrome is an inherited condition that is characterized primarily by multiple, noncancerous growths (called hamartomas) on various parts of the body. People with the syndrome usually have large head (macrocephaly), benign tumors of the hair follicle (trichilemmomas), and white papules with a smooth surface in the mouth (papillomatous papules), starting by the late 20s. It is considered part…

Trisomy 18 is a chromosome disorder characterized by having 3 copies of chromosome 18 instead of the usual 2 copies. Signs and symptoms include severe intellectual disability; low birth weight; a small, abnormally shaped head; a small jaw and mouth; clenched fists with overlapping fingers; congenital heart defects; and various abnormalities of other organs. Trisomy…

Spinal muscular atrophy 1 (SMA1), also known as Werdnig Hoffmann disease, is a genetic neuromuscular disorder that affects the nerve cells that control voluntary muscles (motor neurons). Without treatment, symptoms of SMA1 become apparent before 6 months of age and include worsening muscle weakness and poor muscle tone (hypotonia) due to loss of the lower…

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rare fatal brain disorder that usually occurs later in life and runs a rapid course. In the early stages of the disease, patients may have failing memory, behavior changes, impaired coordination, and vision problems. As CJD progresses, mental deterioration becomes severe, and they can have uncontrolled movements, blindness, weakness, and go into…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 100070 Definition Progressive non-fluent aphasia (PNFA) is a form of frontotemporal dementia (FTD; see this term), characterized by agrammatism, laborious speech, alexia, and agraphia, frequently accompanied by apraxia of speech (AOS). Language comprehension is relatively…

Syndactyly type 1 is a congenital limb developmental defect that involves webbing or joining of the fingers or toes. Syndactyly type 1 is the most common type of non-syndromic syndactyly. Individuals with syndactyly type 1 have webbing of the third and fourth fingers and/or between the second and third toes. Other digits may be involved, as…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 100984 Definition A rare, pure or complex subtype of hereditary spastic paraplegia, with highly variable phenotype, typically characterized by childhood-onset of minimally progressive, bilateral, mainly symmetric lower limb spasticity and weakness, associated with pes cavus,…

Achalasia is a disorder of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It is characterized by enlargement of the esophagus, impaired ability of the esophagus to push food down toward the stomach (peristalsis), and failure of the ring-shaped muscle at the bottom of the esophagus (the lower esophageal sphincter) to relax.[1] Achalasia is…

ACTH-secreting pituitary adenoma is a condition characterized by elevated levels of a hormone called cortisol secreted by a tumor in the pituitary gland. It is part of a group of diseases that cause Cushing’s syndrome, characterized by signs and symptoms that may include weight gain around the trunk and in the face, stretch marks, easy bruising, a hump on…

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also referred to as “Lou Gehrig’s disease,” is a progressive motor neuron disease which leads to problems with muscle control and movement.[1][2] There are various types of ALS that are distinguished by symptoms and, in some cases, genetic cause.[2] Early symptoms may include muscle twitching, cramping, stiffness, or weakness, slurred speech,…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 404 Definition Familial hyperaldosteronism type II (FH-II) is a heritable form of primary aldosteronism (PA) characterized by hypertension of varying severity, and non glucocticoid remediable hyperaldosteronism. Epidemiology PA is the most common form of secondary…

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are a type of soft tissue tumor that usually begin in specialized nerve cells in the wall of the stomach, intestines, or rectum, known as interstitial cells of Cajal. GIST may be noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). If cancerous, the tumor may also be called a soft tissue sarcoma. Symptoms depend on the location,…

The following summary is from Orphanet, a European reference portal for information on rare diseases and orphan drugs. Orpha Number: 30391 Definition Biliary atresia is a rare, progressive obliterative cholangiopathy of the extrahepatic bile ducts, occuring in the embryonic/ perinatal period, leading to severe and persistent jaundice and acholic stool with an unfavorable course in…

Caudal regression sequence (CRS) affects the development of the lower (caudal) half of the body. It can impact the development of the lower back, spinal cord, and lower limbs. The kidneys, bladder, digestive tract, and genitalia may also be affected. CRS occurs during fetal development and is present at birth. The features and severity vary from…

Lowe oculocerebrorenal syndrome is a rare condition that primarily affects the eyes, central nervous system and kidneys. Some of the signs and symptoms associated with the condition are often present from birth, including congenital cataracts and other eye abnormalities; hypotonia (reduced muscle tone); and feeding difficulties. Affected people may also experience kidney problems (such as…

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that causes mucus to build up and damage organs in the body, particularly the lungs and pancreas. Signs and symptoms may include salty-tasting skin; persistent coughing; frequent lung infections; wheezing or shortness of breath; poor growth; weight loss; greasy, bulky stools; difficulty with bowel movements; and in males, infertility. Over time,…

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2) is an inherited disorder in which one or more of the endocrine glands are overactive or form a tumor. Endocrine glands most commonly involved include:[1] Adrenal (about half the time) Parathyroid (20% of the time) Thyroid (almost all of the time) MEN2 is caused by a defect in the RET gene.[1][2] This defect…