Is Epicanthic Fold A Genetic Disorder?
I am worried about my son. He is 3 years old and appears to have epicanthal folds. His Dr has never mentioned this but I just noticed. I am now panicked that he may have a genetic disorder. What are our genetic disorders usually diagnosed by? He seems to be a thriving typical child so far. Are epicanthal folds common without genetic issues? We are not from any Asian descent either.
Thanks
Don't worry,this may be normal variant
Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for asking on this platform
I have gone through the detail and do understand your concern.
Though epicantic fold is a common feature in children of Asian origin,it can be there in any race.
In few children it is part of developmental process and as the bridge of nose begun to raise the epicantic fold disappears.
You are right that if epicantic fold has been noticed in non Asian babies,few genetic syndromes must be ruled out in which this fold is commonly seen.
The genetic disorder or syndrome is defined as a constellations of abnormal features or defects.By only one feature one can be labelled as a genetic disorder.
To alleviate your anxiety here I am describing the babies with genetic disorder.
The most common one is Down syndrome.
In down syndrome the baby has a characteristic facies like upward slanting of eyes,depressed nasal bridge,widely spaced eyes,epicanthic fold,single palmer crease,increased space been the first and second toe etc.Apart from this there may be defects in other organs like heart,kidney,brain etc too.
Similarly other syndromes also have characteristic facies.In most of the genetic disorder the baby's have delayed developmental milestones.
So I won't get worried if there is no developmental delay,baby is growing well and your physicians have not noticed any abnormalities in their clinical examination during your previous visits.
Many parents just hop from one doctor to the other because of this epicanthic fold only but all goes in vain.
Here the only thing needed is reassurance of the parents.
So if not properly examined earlier I would suggest you to get him examined by a physician. Otherwise you need not to worry.Just wait and watch if it gets resolved.
wishing for your baby's good health.
Let me know if you have any more doubts.
Reagrds
Thank you
XXXX
Don't worry,most likely a normal variant
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for follow up
I have seen the images.First of all I want to say that your con is very cute.:) and second don't think yourself as a neurotic.Being concerned about her child is a very normal phenomena.
In both the pic epicanthic fold is seen.There are no other significant abnormality.
I wont get worried as you are in regular follow up with your pediatrician as nothing abnormal has been found.
So this epicanthic fold is most likely a normal variant and there is nothing much to worry.
Regards