Apert Syndrome
- PMID: 30085535
- Bookshelf ID: NBK518993
Apert Syndrome
Excerpt
Apert syndrome, also known as acrocephalosyndactyly type I, is a genetically inherited syndrome characterized by multisuture craniosynostosis, midface retrusion, and syndactyly. The syndrome was first described in 1906 by French physician Eugene Apert, who described 9 people with similar facial and extremity characteristics.
The condition is caused by mutations in the FGFR2 gene, which encodes a protein that regulates cell and bone growth, crucial for normal skull, face, and limb formation. The genetic anomalies lead to abnormal bone development. Advanced paternal age is a significant risk factor for de novo mutations in Apert syndrome. Diagnosis is based on clinical features, supported by genetic testing for FGFR2 mutations. Treatment often involves surgical correction of craniosynostosis and syndactyly, alongside supportive therapies. With early intervention, affected individuals can have a near-normal life expectancy, though they may experience developmental and neurological challenges.
Copyright © 2025, StatPearls Publishing LLC.
Conflict of interest statement
Sections
References
-
- Kutkowska-Kaźmierczak A, Gos M, Obersztyn E. Craniosynostosis as a clinical and diagnostic problem: molecular pathology and genetic counseling. J Appl Genet. 2018 May;59(2):133-147. - PubMed
-
- Wilkie AO, Slaney SF, Oldridge M, Poole MD, Ashworth GJ, Hockley AD, Hayward RD, David DJ, Pulleyn LJ, Rutland P. Apert syndrome results from localized mutations of FGFR2 and is allelic with Crouzon syndrome. Nat Genet. 1995 Feb;9(2):165-72. - PubMed
-
- von Gernet S, Golla A, Ehrenfels Y, Schuffenhauer S, Fairley JD. Genotype-phenotype analysis in Apert syndrome suggests opposite effects of the two recurrent mutations on syndactyly and outcome of craniofacial surgery. Clin Genet. 2000 Feb;57(2):137-9. - PubMed
Publication types
LinkOut - more resources
Full Text Sources
Miscellaneous