Genetic Evaluation for Craniofacial Conditions

Facial Plast Surg Clin North Am. 2016 Nov;24(4):405-425. doi: 10.1016/j.fsc.2016.06.001.

Abstract

There are thousands of craniofacial disorders, each with a different etiology. All cases of orofacial clefts have an underlying genetic cause, ranging from multifactorial with an underlying genetic predisposition to chromosomal and single-gene etiologies. More than 50% of cases of Pierre Robin sequence are syndromic and 25% of craniosynostoses are syndromic. Clinical genetics evaluation is important for each patient with a craniofacial condition to make a proper diagnosis, counsel the family, and assist in management. This is an overview of the major components of the clinical genetics evaluation with a review of many syndromes associated with craniofacial disorders.

Keywords: Cleft lip; Cleft palate; Dysmorphology; Family history; Genetic counseling; Genetic evaluation; Genetic testing; Teratogens.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Craniofacial Abnormalities / diagnosis
  • Craniofacial Abnormalities / genetics*
  • Female
  • Genetic Counseling*
  • Genetic Testing*
  • Humans
  • Medical History Taking
  • Physical Examination
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Diagnosis