Home > Encyclopedia of Neurological Disorders > Klippel Feil Syndrome

Definition

Klippel Feil syndrome is a rare congenital (present at birth) disorder in which there is abnormal fusion of some of the cervical (neck) vertebrae.

Description

People with Klippel Feil syndrome are often identified due to three major characteristics: a short neck, a low hairline, and restricted neck mobility due to the fused cervical vertebrae. Klippel Feil syndrome can occur as a lone defect, or in association with other abnormalities, including scoliosis (curved spine), spina bifida (a birth defect involving the spinal column and cord), cleft palate, and a variety of defects involving the ribs, urinary tract, kidneys, heart, muscles, brain, and skeleton. Facial defects and problems with hearing and breathing may also occur in Klippel Feil syndrome.

Klippel Feil syndrome has been organized into three basic...