We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is Goldenhar Syndrome?

By Sarah Snypes
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 10,777
Share

Goldenhar syndrome, also known as Goldenhar-Golin syndrome and oculo-auricolo-vertebral (OAV) syndrome, is a rare congenital condition which presents deformities in the head and spinal column bones. Initially discovered in 1952 by Dr. Maurice Goldenhar, individuals afflicted with Goldenhar syndrome have physical abnormalities present at birth. These differences can be mild or severe in nature. In some cases of Goldenhar syndrome, the physical irregularities can be seen bilaterally, or on both sides of the face, while other cases exhibit unilateral abnormalities, which are only seen on one side of the face.

Goldenhar syndrome can affect the eyes, ears, and lips. Those born with this condition can have partially developed or totally absent parts of the face, as well as hypoplasia, incomplete formation of the skin and muscles of the face. Abnormal ear development is a prominent characteristic of this condition. The ears can be smaller than average, called microtia, or absent, called anotia.

Birth defects of the eye area are also an extremely common characteristic. Eyeball cysts are routinely encountered in this syndrome, and some patients may have tissue missing from the upper portion of the eyelid. Goldenhar syndrome may also cause deformation of the corners of the mouth and mouth opening, which can lead to problems with speech.

It has not yet been determined if actions by the mother during pregnancy can directly or indirectly lead to Goldenhar syndrome. There are some physicians, however, who believe that the lifestyle of the pregnant woman may lead to incomplete child development. Exposure to certain toxins and chemicals may also result in the development of Goldenhar syndrome.

Diagnosis of Goldenhar syndrome involves a thorough physical examination of the affected individual. An ultrasound scan or x-rays may also be used in diagnosis, and can assist in identification of internal abnormalities. Unfortunately, there is no genetic test available that can properly diagnose Goldenhar syndrome.

Treatment of Goldenhar syndrome generally involves the correction of the various symptoms present. Hearing-related problems can be alleviated by a hearing aid, corrective dental procedures can be used to assist in dental irregularities, and speech difficulties may be improved by speech therapy. Plastic surgery is also used as a restorative treatment in some instances, and can vary from simple cosmetic procedures to more invasive surgeries for severe cases. The prognosis for Goldenhar syndrome is usually excellent, and individuals affected by this condition generally are able to live and function normally.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-is-goldenhar-syndrome.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.