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Mental retardation short stature cleft palate unusual facies
Overview
Mental retardation - short stature - cleft palate - unusual facies refers to a form of intellectual disability that is characterized mainly by below-average mental ability, short body frame, an opening in the roof of the mouth (cleft palate), and facial abnormalities. Individuals with this form of intellectual disability often have difficulty with breathing or eating because of their cleft palate. Like other individuals with intellectual disability, an individual with this condition often has problems with reasoning and solving problems, as well as performing day-to-day tasks. The condition is often diagnosed during childhood. Doctors diagnose this form of intellectual disability if facial abnormalities and an opening in the roof of the mouth are observed. Signs like walking and talking late, slow mastering of basic tasks, and having difficulty remembering things may also suggest this condition in children. Treatment is developed a case-by-case basis and depends on the specific needs of the patient. Physicians will typically recommend for patients to undergo surgery to fix facial abnormalities and the cleft palate to relieve breathing and eating problems. Doctors seek help from various therapists and community services to provide support and care for families affected by intellectual disability.
Trusted Medical Sites
Genetic & Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD)
GARD provides the public with access to current, reliable, and easy-to-understand information about rare or genetic diseases in English or Spanish.
Support Organizations
Support organizations can provide help and guidance in areas such as peer matching, education and training, and therapy and counseling.