An illness that manifests because of a series of events and features on the face is referred to as Pierre Robin Syndrome or PRS. This abnormality affects both the head and the face where the tongue is located further back into the mouth than normal. There is also an opening on the top lip or the roof of the mouth by means of a cleft. Invariably the person has a very small jaw which is the reason for the displacement of the entire structure of the face.

People are usually born with this underdeveloped jaw and their difference in features is quite noticeable. Other symptoms that occur include a difficulty in breathing and lack of interest in food. Babies born with the malady end up either underweight or extremely short. At times, however, the mandible does grow, resulting in the child having a normal chin instead of a protrusion or limited structure. The SOS signals after the birth of the baby are choking and extreme difficulty in breathing. At times due to a blockage of the airways, the child will exhibit a sharp noise while breathing and the color of the skin may even turn blue.

Diagnostic Tests and Symptoms

Due to this problem, other organs and tissues in the body get affected with stickler syndrome or dysplasia. This situation is referred to as syndromic and if PRS occurs on its own it is referred to as either isolated or non-syndromic. When you look at the general figures, more than 30 percent of people with the illness have the latter. There are a couple of additional symptoms like repeated ear infections, a palate that is extremely high and arched, the location of the jaw far back in the throat, the tongue larger than the law, a cleft, natal teeth, etc. To ascertain the problem a series of diagnostic tests during a physical exam are conducted by a genetic specialist. This usually occurs after the birth of the child to determine the treatment options if any either immediately or at a later stage.

Treatment

The first and foremost criterion is to refrain from putting the child on his/ her back. This is a preventive measure to stop the tongue from causing any breathing problems. If the problem is moderate, a tube is inserted from the nose through the airway passage to stop any blockage. If required, surgery may be imminent due to the severity of the malady, which helps prevent any blockage from the upper airway. Alternatively, a tracheotomy may be conducted and post surgery, it is important to feed the child liquids and no solids unless approved by the specialist. This would be in the form of a tube to prevent choking or other problems.

Complications can occur with breathing difficulties especially while sleeping, such as pulmonary hypertension, choking or low blood supply and oxygen to the brain resulting in extreme breathing difficulties, congestive heart disease or even death. After the surgery, it is extremely important to keep an eye on the child and keep in touch with the doctor in case of emergencies.

Dr. James S. Pendergraft opened the Orlando Women\’s Center in March 1996 to provide a full range of health care for women.
http://www.womenscenter.com/

Dr. James S. Pendergraft opened the Orlando Women\’s Center in March 1996 to provide a full range of health care for women.
http://www.womenscenter.com/

Author Bio: Dr. James S. Pendergraft opened the Orlando Women\’s Center in March 1996 to provide a full range of health care for women.
http://www.womenscenter.com/

Category: Medicines and Remedies
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