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Acrodysostosis: Causes, Symptoms, Complications, And Treatment

Last Updated: Apr 20, 2024

What is Acrodysostosis?

Acrodysostosis is a hereditary disorder that is rare to occur. It is a result of genetic mutations, accompanied by malformations in skeletal structures, delays in growth and development, decreased height, and abnormal or unique facial features. These features appear in the form of short limbs including hands and feet along with shorter extremities. The abnormal facial features may be a result of underdevelopment or hypoplasia of facial bones, mainly in the middle of the face. The condition also marks mental disability in some children while some develop a resistance to certain hormones. The levels of hormones remain normal but the cells or tissues in their body stop responding to the hormones.

The cause of Acrodysostosis is related to genetic mutations. The newly formed protein as a result of mutation can have serious effects on the vital organ systems in the body including the brain. The disease basically is of two types:

  • Acrodysostosis Type 1
  • Acrodysostosis Type 2

In type 1 form, the common feature is developing resistance to certain hormones, while in type 2, mental disability and abnormal facial features are the distinguishing features.

Summary: Acrodysostosis is a congenital genetic disease that affects the normal growth and development of an individual. Along with retardation of physical development, mental disability and resistance to hormones are also seen in such conditions.

What are the symptoms of Acrodysostosis?

Acrodysostosis is a genetic disorder linked to autosomal dominant inheritance. It is characterized by various features which appear in the form of symptoms in different individuals. Though a lot of research is yet to be done regarding rare diseases, much important information has been established based on the research work. Symptoms related to Acrodysostosis include the following:

  • Skeletal malformations: It includes abnormal shortening of bones in the hands and feet. As a result of this, they become small along with the shortening of the fingers too. In some cases, few of the fingers or toes are affected while all of them become short in some.
  • Malformations of the spine: It involves the risks of spinal stenosis and Kyphosis which is characterized by an abnormal spine curvature. Numbness and pain may also be observed in the legs and lower back portion.
  • Abnormal or dysplastic facial features: This includes shortening of the upper jaw and also the nasal bone. As a result, the nose becomes very small and the nose bridge seems to be flattened. The lower jaw appears to be protruded.
  • Mental disability: This can occur in 90 percent of children. The children face delayed development in acquiring different skills such as learning. Walking and talking.
  • Development of resistance against hormones: Development of resistance towards hormones like parathyroid hormone as well as the thyroid-stimulating hormone is seen in some individuals suffering from Acrodysostosis.
  • Infection of the middle ear, obesity, lesions on the skin, and loss of hearing capacity.
Summary: The symptoms seen in Acrodysostosis are based upon detailed research work. Skeletal and spine malformations, dysplastic facial features, mental disability, resistance to hormones, etc. are some of the common symptoms experienced.

What causes Acrodysostosis?

Acrodysostosis is a rare hereditary disorder that has an autosomal mode of transmission. Males and females both are affected on equal priority. The cause of the disease is related to the mutation of genes. The type of mutation which has been identified in some of the cases is the PRKAR1A type of mutation. The occurrence of this disease is mostly in sporadic form.

When a mutation of genes occurs, a new form of protein is formed which is faulty or defective. The newly formed protein as a result of mutation can have serious effects on the vital organ systems in the body including the brain.

Summary: The cause related to Acrodysostosis are genetic mutations that are carried out by an autosomal dominant mode of transmission. The occurrence is due to PRKAR1A type mutation in the sporadic form.

How is Acrodysostosis diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Acrodysostosis should be done under the supervision of a specialist. A proper diagnosis of this disease should be done in the following steps:

  • Identifying the symptoms: In this step, proper identification of the characteristic symptoms should be done. Analysis Of these features is important for further steps.
  • History of the patient: A detailed history of the patient should be asked. This should include information about the age, history of present illness, and medical history.
  • Clinical evaluation: A detailed clinical evaluation is important as the treatment plan is decided on its basis.
  • Investigations: This includes various types of tests including X-rays and other specialized tests.
Summary: The diagnosis of Acrodysostosis is an important step that should be done only under the supervision of a specialized neurologist. Medical history, clinical history, and certain investigations are the involved steps.
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How to prevent Acrodysostosis?

Acrodysostosis is a genetic disease that has the autosomal mode of transmission. It is present in an individual congenitally and is a lifelong disease. It can occur in any individual be it male or female. No external factors are involved in the occurrence of this disorder in any individual. These are the genes only that are responsible for such conditions. Hence, the prevention of Acrodysostosis is not possible.

Summary: Acrodysostosis is a rare disease that is present in an individual from birth. The prevention of this disease is not possible since the cause is related to genetic mutations.

What to do when Acrodysostosis?

Acrodysostosis occurs usually in sporadic form. It is present in any individual since birth. The disease is related to the mutation of genes and is linked to the autosomal dominant mode of transmission. When an individual develops this rare condition, the first important thing that should be done is to approach a well-specialized team of doctors who can do the treatment in a coordinated way. Such a team of specialists should include a paediatrician, orthopaedic surgeon, neurologist, orthodontist, ophthalmologist, and physical therapist. A combined effort of the whole team can treat the disease effectively.

Summary: Since Acrodysostosis is a genetic disorder, its prevention is not possible. However, it is important to consult a well-specialized neurologist for a pro[er diagnosis and an adequate treatment plan.

Can Acrodysostosis go away on its own?

Acrodysostosis is related to the genetics of an individual and is inherited through an autosomal dominant mode of transmission. It is present congenitally and its development remains unaffected by any other factors. This disorder cannot get resolved spontaneously and needs to undergo treatment under the supervision of well-coordinated efforts of a specialized team of doctors. It is a lifelong condition and cannot be cured. Control and management of the related symptoms can be done only.

How is Acrodysostosis treated?

Acrodysostosis is treated under the supervision of a well-specialized team of doctors. The treatment is basically the symptomatic and supportive treatment which is based upon a proper clinical evaluation of the patient. It is initiated in a well-coordinated manner by the team in the following ways:

  1. Paediatricians: They are child specialists and take care of the overall health problems of the child.
  2. Orthopedician: Skeletal deformities and malformations are taken into consideration by orthopaedics.
  3. Pediatric endocrinologists: Hormonal imbalance is diagnosed and treated accordingly under their supervision.
  4. Orthopaedic surgeons: They perform bone-related surgeries which can be a part of the treatment of Acrodysostosis.
  5. Orthodontists: They take care of the teeth and related abnormalities such as malocclusion and malalignment.
  6. Neurologists: Any abnormality or disorder related to the child’s nervous system is taken into consideration.
  7. Ophthalmologists: Visual abnormalities are treated by ophthalmologists.
Summary: These specialists and healthcare professionals work in a systematic and comprehensive manner to plan a long-term treatment plan for the child suffering from Acrodysostosis. They increase the life expectancy of the patient and enable him/her to lead a normal and healthy life.

What to eat in Acrodysostosis?

Diet is always linked to all health issues directly or indirectly. In the case of Acrodysostosis, the diet has been known to play a key role in the control and management of the condition. Some of the food items which need to be consumed while suffering from Acrodysostosis include the following:

  • Sources of healthy carbohydrates: These include staples including whole grains, cereals, maize, rye, or starchy carbohydrates like potato, yam, etc.
  • Sources of proteins: Meat, fish, eggs, milk, etc. are some sources of protein that need to be incorporated into our daily diet.
  • Lean proteins: These include chicken, legumes, beans, lentils, etc.
  • Sources of Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants: These include fresh fruits and vegetables which are rich in fibres too.
  • Healthy fats: Some important sources are olive oil, sunflower or corn oil, soy, etc.
Summary: One should take care of his/her dietary intake when suffering from Acrodysostosis. The disease may be directly or indirectly linked to the diet. Food items such as low fat containing eatables, fresh fruits, and vegetables, whole grains, soy milk, dried fruits, etc. are preferred.

What not to eat in Acrodysostosis?

Certain kinds of food items that need to be avoided in conditions like acrodysostosis include the following:

  • Sources of saturated fatty acids: These are the unhealthy fats that provoke risks of obesity and related disease. Examples are butter, ghee, lard, etc.
  • Foods having salt content: Salt levels in the regular diet of an affected individual should be kept up to a normal level. Any increase in salt intake may cause risks of several health problems.
  • High sodium content food items: These include sauces like soy sauce or fish sauce.
  • Food containing high levels of sugar: Certain food items need to be avoided in this category. Those include candies, cookies, cakes, chocolates, etc.
Summary: proper intake of diet may play an important role in the control and management of the disease, not directly but in an indirect way. Hence, it is important to know about certain food items to be avoided in this condition and those include unhealthy fats, excessive salt intake, foods rich in high sodium levels, high sugar food items, etc.

What are the side effects of Acrodysostosis treatments?

The treatment of Acrodysostosis mainly involves the symptomatic and supportive way based upon the symptoms being shown in the affected individual. However, there are some side effects that may be observed during the treatment of Acrodysostosis. Those include the following:

  • Nausea
  • Feeling sick
  • Fevers and chills
  • A severe form of headaches
  • Bad taste in the mouth
  • Infection in the ear
  • Visual disturbances
Summary: The treatment of Acrodysostosis is mainly based upon symptomatic and clinical evaluation. However, there are some side effects commonly associated with the condition. Those include nausea, headaches, bad taste in the mouth, etc.

Should I go to urgent care for Acrodysostosis?

Acrodysostosis is a rare genetic abnormality that develops in an individual as a result of mutations in the specific genes and shows the autosomal dominant mode of transmission. It shows symptoms like skeletal malformations, facial dysplastic abnormalities, short stature, small limbs with small extremities, mental disabilities, and hormonal imbalance.

These symptoms are not self resolvable and hence need medical attention and care on an urgent basis. The treatment cannot cure the disease but enables the affected individual to lead to a normal and good quality of life.

Summary: Acrodysostosis is present congenitally and its development remains unaffected by any other factors. Hence, it needs to undergo urgent medical care and treatment under the supervision of well-coordinated efforts of a specialized team of doctors and cannot resolve itself.

How long does it take to recover from Acrodysostosis?

Acrodysostosis is a lifelong abnormality that is present in the individual since birth. The disease cannot be cured and the affected individual remains with the symptoms till the end of his life. Symptomatic and supportive treatment is possible which ensures a better quality of life for the patient.

Summary: Acrodysostosis is a lifelong abnormality that cannot be cured. The treatment only ensures a better quality of life for the patient and enables him to lead a normal healthy life.

What is the price of Acrodysostosis treatments in India?

The treatment of Acrodysostosis is based upon symptomatic and supportive treatment therapies. It does not involve a single-specialty but it is a combined and coordinated effort of multiple specialties. The treatment is lifelong and so is the expense related to it. Hence, the price for the overall treatment modalities sums up to a bigger amount. In other words, it can be said that Acrodysostosis treatment is quite expensive in India.

Summary: Acrodysostosis is associated with a treatment that is continued throughout the life of an affected individual. The overall treatment modalities consist of multiple specialties treatments and are quite expensive.

Physical Exercises for the people suffering from Acrodysostosis:

Physical exercises are necessary for people suffering from Acrodysostosis. Lack of activities and movement in such patients may even worsen the symptoms by causing obesity or weight gain. These are not favorable for conditions of short stature, skeletal malformations, facial deformities, etc. Hence, it is important to implement exercises on a regular basis to prevent such complications. Some of them include:

  • Low or moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercises: These Are important to maintain healthy body weight as abnormal weight may induce several health risks. Swimming, cycling, and running are commonly preferred.
  • Walking: This is important as regular walking improves blood circulation and the overall health of the affected individual. One should walk for at least 30 minutes to get proper health benefits.
  • Various yoga poses: Several yogas including pranayam can effectively help in maintaining a healthy state of mind as well as body.
  • Regular exercises: These include the normal and regular form of exercises which we can do ourselves in our home.
Summary: It is important for an individual suffering from Acrodysostosis to implement regular physical activities and mild exercises on a daily basis. However, severe forms of exercise should not be preferred as they may increase fatigue, weakness, and lethargy.

Which is the best medicine for Acrodysostosis?

Acrodysostosis is not a single disease abnormality but is a combination of multiple abnormalities. Hence, the treatment methods preferred in such conditions involve symptomatic and supportive therapies based upon the symptoms being shown in the affected individual. Hence, there is no concept of the single best medicine for Acrodysostosis.

Summary: Treatment methods of Acrodysostosis involve symptomatic and supportive therapies based upon the symptoms being shown in the affected individual. However, there is no concept of the single best medicine for Acrodysostosis as the treatment is a combined multispeciality treatment.

Are the results of the Acrodysostosis treatment is permanent?

The treatment of Acrodysostosis is based upon the symptoms being shown up in the individual. It is a multiple speciality treatment. The results of the treatment are not permanent since the disease is incurable. The outcome that we get out of the combined form of treatment ensures the individual leads a better quality of life.

Summary: The results of the treatment of Acrodysostosis are not permanent since the disease is non-curable. The outcome that we get out of the combined form of treatment ensures the individual leads a better quality of life.

What are the alternatives to the Acrodysostosis treatment?

Acrodysostosis is an incurable disease. Symptomatic and supportive treatment are the only possible ways for survival with this abnormality. Hence, no alternatives are known so far, as far as the condition of Acrodysostosis is concerned.

Summary: Acrodysostosis can only be treated by an application of symptomatic and supportive treatment. This is important so as to ensure a better quality of life. However, no alternatives have been known so far.

Who is eligible for the Acrodysostosis treatment?

Acrodysostosis is a congenital hereditary disorder that can develop in any individual of any age group or sex. The symptoms of the disease cannot be resolved spontaneously and the disease itself is incurable. Hence, it is necessary for every individual suffering from the abnormality to undergo symptomatic and supportive treatment. Hence, each and every affected individual is eligible for treatment.

Who is not eligible for the Acrodysostosis treatment?

Since Acrodysostosis is incurable, each and every individual suffering from this rare disorder have to undergo proper treatment under the supervision of a specialized team of doctors of multi-specialty. Hence, anyone who is affected has to undergo the treatment and be eligible for the same.

What are the post-treatment guidelines?

Some of the post-treatment guidelines need to be followed by the individuals suffering from Acrodysostosis. These guidelines include:

  • Undergoing regular health checkups to avoid any risks of probable infections.
  • Maintaining a healthy well-balanced diet in daily routine including essential nutrients in a required ratio.
  • Regular physical activities and low or moderate-intensity exercise forms.
  • Keeping consistency in a healthy diet, lifestyle changes, etc.
Summary: Acrodysostosis is a congenital hereditary disorder that can develop in any individual of any age group or sex. It is a lifelong abnormality. It cannot be cured and the affected individual remains with the symptoms till the end of his life. Only symptomatic and supportive treatment is possible which ensures a better quality of life for the patient.

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Written ByDrx Hina FirdousPhD (Pharmacology) Pursuing, M.Pharma (Pharmacology), B.Pharma - Certificate in Nutrition and Child CarePharmacology
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Reviewed ByDr. Bhupindera Jaswant SinghMD - Consultant PhysicianGeneral Physician
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