Home > Encyclopedia of Genetic Disorders > Schinzel-Giedion syndrome

Definition

Schinzel-Giedion syndrome, or Schinzel-Giedion Midface-Retraction syndrome is a rare malformation syndrome characterized by skeletal anomalies, a coarse face, urogenital defects, and severe mental retardation.

Description

In affected individuals, the ureter, or tube that carries urine from the kidney into the bladder, is obstructed causing the pelvis and kidney duct to become swollen with excess urine. This is called hydronephrosis. Other features of the syndrome include hypertrichosis or the excessive growth of hair, a flat midface, abnormal brain activity, skeletal abnormalities, and severe mental retardation.

Patients show abnormal bone maturation including broad and dense ribs and short arms and legs. Severely delayed mental and motor development is accompanied by...