At that stage, features of achondroplasia aren't yet noticeable. Doctors sometimes suspect achondroplasia before birth if an ultrasound late in a pregnancy shows that a baby's arms and legs are shorter than average and the head is larger. But many children with achondroplasia aren't diagnosed until after birth. Doctors can recognize some other types of skeletal dysplasia earlier in pregnancy. Others aren't noticed until the first few months or years of life, when a child's growth slows.
A health care provider may take X-rays after birth to check for bone changes. Doctors also may use genetic testing before or after birth to confirm the diagnosis. Each condition that causes dwarfism has its own possible medical complications, which can change over time.
But doctors can treat many of these. Children with dwarfism are cared for by doctors who specialize in orthopedics, neurosurgery, ENT, and pulmonology.
Some medical concerns are treated with surgery. These are done with anesthesia, which can be more of a risk for little people because of their smaller body size and airways. Because of their shorter stature and differences in bone growth, children with dwarfism often learn to roll over, sit up, and walk at different ages than average-height children.
These are not considered delays, but developmental differences. Children with dwarfism figure out how to do it in their own time and in their own way. People with dwarfism should try to keep a healthy weight.
A few extra pounds can puts harmful stress on the back and joints. It's important for them to find safe and enjoyable physical activities. People with dwarfism can lead healthy, active lives. The Americans with Disabilities Act protects their rights. Types of skeletal dysplasia and the severity of medical needs vary from person to person. In general, with proper medical care, life span is not affected by dwarfism.
Parents can help their kids lead the best life possible by building their sense of independence and self-esteem right from the start. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice.
Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. Dwarfism Also called: Little person. Learn More Specifics Genetics. See, Play and Learn No links available. Resources Find an Expert. Start Here. Making a tentative prenatal diagnosis while the baby is still in the womb can be done with an ultrasound.
This is a lab test of amniotic fluid from the womb. Genetic testing may be helpful in some cases. This is particularly true when distinguishing one potential cause of dwarfism from another. A blood test to check for growth hormone levels may also help confirm a diagnosis of dwarfism caused by hormone deficiency.
Dwarfism is often accompanied by health complications. These range from leg and back problems to brain and lung function issues. Pregnancy in those with dwarfism can present its own set of potential complications, including respiratory problems. For some people with proportionate dwarfism, poor development of the organs can lead to significant health problems.
For people with growth hormone deficiency, injections of synthetic human growth hormone may be helpful. This may be done if there are concerns about full adult maturation and sufficient muscle and fat. Estrogen therapy may be necessary until a woman reaches the age of menopause. For others with dwarfism, surgical treatments may be necessary and helpful to living a longer, healthier life.
Another surgical procedure for people with excess fluid around the brain is to place a type of tube, called a shunt , in the brain. This can relieve some of that fluid and reduce pressure on the brain.
Physical therapy and orthotics are noninvasive solutions to some complications of dwarfism. Physical therapy is often prescribed after limb or back surgery to help you regain or improve your range of motion and strength. Orthotics are custom-made devices that fit into your shoes to help improve your foot health and function.
If dwarfism is affecting your balance, how you walk, or other aspects of foot function, talk with a podiatrist about how orthotics may help you. Dealing with prejudices and ignorance in society can be difficult. There may also be everyday challenges associated with living with dwarfism. Organizations such as LPA provide resources to help with the emotional and logistical challenges in life.
Finding a support group can help you connect with a community of people who have had similar experiences. The LPA can also help you learn about how to lower light switches, doorknobs, and other things in your home. They can also provide information and resources about special tools or equipment you can use and modifications you can make to your car, school, or workspace. Barstow C, Rerucha C. Evaluation of short and tall stature in children. Am Fam Physician. Genetic Rare Diseases Information Center.
Updated May 19, Pauli RM. Achondroplasia: a comprehensive clinical review. Orphanet J Rare Dis. Harvard Medical School. What happens during OSA. Reviewed May 4, Growth hormone receptor mutations related to individual dwarfism. Int J Mol Sci. Published August 18, Development of body proportions in achondroplasia: Sitting height, leg length, arm span, and foot length. Am J Med Genet A. Your Privacy Rights. To change or withdraw your consent choices for VerywellHealth.
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