Chondroectodermal dysplasia; EVCEllis-van Creveld syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects bone growth.
Ellis-van Creveld is passed down through families (inherited). It is caused by defects in 1 of 2 Ellis-van Creveld syndrome genes (EVC and EVC2). These genes are positioned next to each other on the same chromosome.
The severity of the disease varies from person to person. The highest rate of the condition is seen among the Old Order Amish population of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It is fairly rare in the general population.
Symptoms
Exams and Tests
Signs of this condition include:
Tests include:
Treatment
Treatment depends on which body system is affected and the severity of the problem. The condition itself is not treatable, but many of the complications can be treated.
Support Groups
Many communities have EVC support groups. Ask your health care provider or local hospital if there is one in your area.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Many babies with this condition die in early infancy. Most often this is due to a small chest or heart defect. Stillbirth is common.
The outcome depends on which body system is involved and to what extent that body system is involved. Like many genetic conditions involving bones or the physical structure, intelligence is normal.
Possible Complications
Complications may include:
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your provider if your child has symptoms of this syndrome. If you have a family history of EVC syndrome and your child has any symptoms, visit your provider.
Genetic counseling can help families understand the condition and how to care for the person.
Prevention
Genetic counseling is recommended for prospective parents from a high-risk group, or who have a family history of EVC syndrome.
References
Horton WA, Hecht JT. Disorders for which defects are poorly understood or unknown. In: Kliegman RM, Stanton BF, St. Geme JW, Schor NF, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 20th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016:chap 700.
Jones KL, Jones MC, DelCampo M. Osteochondrodysplasias. In: Jones KL, Jones MC, DelCampo M, eds. Smith's Recognizable Patterns of Human Malformation. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2013:chap K.
BACK TO TOP