Table of Contents
Who is most likely affected by dwarfism?
Dwarfism most often does happen in families where both parents are of average height. More than 300 different conditions can cause dwarfism. Achondroplasia is the most common type of dwarfism. Achondroplasia is a genetic condition that affects about 1 in 15,000 to 1 in 40,000 people.
How common is dwarfism in pregnancy?
This short-limb dwarfism happens in about 1 of every 25,000 babies born of all races and ethnic groups.
Can dwarfism be picked up in pregnancy?
If one or both parents have a family history of a condition that causes short stature, their baby can be tested for this during pregnancy (prenatal diagnosis). Read more about screening tests in pregnancy.
How tall is the average person with dwarfism?
Dwarfism is a condition that is characterized by short stature, usually resulting in an adult height of 4’10” or shorter. [1] [2] Dwarfism can and most often does occur in families where both parents are of average height. [3]
What causes a person to be a dwarf?
You may also have a larger head and weak muscle tone. Other genetic conditions, kidney disease, and problems with metabolism or hormones can also cause dwarfism. The conditions that cause dwarfism can also cause other health problems. Most of them are treatable. It is important to have regular checkups throughout your life.
What are the symptoms of disproportionate dwarfism in children?
Another cause of disproportionate dwarfism is a rare disorder called spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita (SEDC). Signs may include: A very short trunk. A short neck. Shortened arms and legs. Average-size hands and feet. Broad, rounded chest. Slightly flattened cheekbones.
How often do babies with dwarfism die at birth?
There is a 50 percent chance of the child inheriting one of each type of gene, but a 25 percent chance that the baby will have two dwarfism genes. Babies born with what is called a “double-dominant syndrome” often die at birth or soon afterward.