ARACHNODACTYLY

SYMPTOMS

The characteristics of CCA differ between individuals, in and across families. Also, their characteristics vary. The traditional form is distinguished by:

• Tall, slim with a greater arm spread than the height of the person
• Long slender toes and fingers
• Crumpled or twisted ears
• Major joints contract since birth
• Muscular hypoplasia 
• Scoliosis/kyphosis
• Bowed long bones
• Dilation of the aortic root
• Brachycephaly and steamrolling of the forehead 

Some newborns have irregularly shaped ears that give them a “crumpled” look. Other frequent symptoms include having unusually long slim toes and fingers (arachnodactyly), persistent flippage (camptodactyly), muscle underdevelopment (muscular hypoplasia), and spinal curvatures both from the front to the left and from the side to the left (kyphoscoliosis). Kyphoscoliosis is generally gradual and serious, frequently requiring operation.

DIAGNOSIS

A hereditary or uncommon illness diagnosis may be difficult. In helping to determine the conditions of their patients, the health practitioners usually check for diagnoses by looking at the following: 

• Patient’s symptoms or characteristics
• Medical history
• Physical examination
• Laboratory tests

Physicians are encouraging you to consult a medical expert if you already have concerns about obtaining some of the symptoms. Early detection of the condition may help in improving the health of the patient. 

TREATMENT

Booking an appointment with an orthopedist would be best for this condition. Your orthopedist may recommend physical therapy in order to enhance your joints’ mobility. However, surgery may be advised for severe cases.

Furthermore, regular visits to your physician is also advised in order to monitor the development of symptoms. Also, if present, further symptoms should be dealt with as they occur.