What are traits of Dwarfism?

Physical Traits

- Short stature (usually less than 4 feet tall)

- Disproportionately short limbs

- Large head and face

- Broad forehead

- Short neck

- Widely spaced eyes

- Flattened nasal bridge

- Full cheeks

- Small mouth

- Protruding lower jaw

- Delayed dentition

- Broad, short hands

- Short, broad feet

- Hypertrophy of tongue

- Umbilical hernia

- Lordosis (curvature of the spine)

- Genu valgum (knock knees)

- Delayed puberty

- Infertility

Health Problems

- Sleep apnea

- Diabetes

- Obesity

- Heart disease

- Stroke

- Vision problems

- Hearing problems

- Joint pain

- Muscle weakness

- Respiratory problems

- Gastrointestinal problems

- Genitourinary problems

- Learning disabilities

- Behavioral problems

- Mental health problems

Achondroplasia is the most common form of dwarfism, accounting for about 70% of cases. Other forms of dwarfism include:

- Hypochondroplasia: A milder form of achondroplasia, with less severe short stature and limb shortening

- Diastrophic dysplasia: A rare form of dwarfism characterized by short stature, joint deformities, and clubfoot

- Spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia: A group of disorders characterized by short stature, joint deformities, and spinal problems

- Thanatophoric dysplasia: A lethal form of dwarfism characterized by extreme short stature, limb shortening, and respiratory problems