What is the cause of phocomelia?
In many cases, the underlying cause of phocomelia is poorly understood. It can be inherited as part of a genetic syndrome . Phocomelia can also be caused by maternal exposure to certain drugs (such as thalidomide) during pregnancy. There is no specific treatment for phocomelia.
Which drugs causes phocomelia?
The most well-known cause of phocomelia is the use of a drug called thalidomide during pregnancy. Thalidomide was once marketed as a safe drug for pregnancy. It was used for treating anxiety and morning sickness. Thalidomide supposedly cured depression, gastritis, and insomnia.
What is the difference between phocomelia and amelia?
…or both hands or feet), phocomelia (normal hands and feet but absence of the long bones), and amelia (complete absence of one or more limbs).
What phocomelia means?
Phocomelia is a condition that involves malformations of human arms and legs. Although many factors can cause phocomelia, the prominent roots come from the use of the drug thalidomide and from genetic inheritance.
Is Phocomelia a disease?
Phocomelia, or amelia, is a rare condition that causes very short limbs. It’s a type of congenital disorder. This means it’s present at birth.
Why does thalidomide cause Phocomelia?
Phocomelia remains the most striking limb deformity caused by thalidomide, and remains the stereotypical image of thalidomide embryopathy. Phocomelia occurs through a severe shortening of the limb/s, due to proximal elements (long bones) being reduced or missing and leaving distal elements (handplate) in place.
Why did thalidomide cause Phocomelia?
What is a withered arm?
2 adj Withered is used to describe someone’s leg or arm when it is thin and weak because of disease or injury.
How common is Phocomelia?
Phocomelia is an extremely rare condition. It’s characterized by one or more shortened limbs. In more serious cases, the limbs might be completely absent.
What are the side effects of thalidomide?
Thalidomide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- drowsiness.
- confusion.
- anxiety.
- depression or mood changes.
- difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
- bone, muscle, joint, or back pain.
- weakness.
- headache.
Does lack of vitamin A cause birth defects?
In addition to causing birth defects at high doses in animals, deficiency of vitamin A can result in incom- plete pregnancies and birth defects [24].
What was wrong with Kaiser Wilhelm’s arm?
Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany (1859) developed a weak and noticeably short left arm during childhood, commonly attributed to nerve damage caused by the use of excessive force during his difficult breech delivery, Erb’s palsy.
What are the signs and symptoms of phocomelia?
Signs and symptoms. The symptoms of phocomelia syndrome are undeveloped limbs and absent pelvic bones; however, various abnormalities can occur to the limbs and bones. Usually the upper limbs are not fully formed and sections of the “hands and arms may be missing.”. Short arm bones, fused fingers, and missing thumbs will often occur.
What factors can lead to phocomelia during pregnancy?
The following factors during pregnancy can also lead to phocomelia: Shortened or missing limb is a major symptom of phocomelia. The condition might also affect eyes, ears, nose, growth, and cognition. Phocomelia can include the following symptoms in addition:
What is phocomelia (Amelia)?
Phocomelia, or amelia, is a rare condition that causes very short limbs. It’s a type of congenital disorder. This means it’s present at birth. Phocomelia can vary in type and severity. The condition might affect one limb, the upper or lower limbs, or all four limbs.
Is there a cure for phocomelia?
There isn’t a current cure for phocomelia. However, the following forms of treatment can help manage symptoms: Prosthetics are artificial limbs that are attached to the body. They can add length to an existing limb or replace an absent one. This makes it easier to do everyday activities, which can improve overall quality of life.