Treacher Collins syndrome

A rare condition in which some bones and tissues in the face are not developed.

Overview

Treacher Collins syndrome is a genetic condition that most often affects the cheekbones, jaw, chin, and ears. The changed gene that causes the condition may or may not be inherited.

Symptoms

Symptoms include downward-slanting eyes, a very small jaw and chin, speech problems, hearing loss, and vision loss. Some babies may be born with a hole in the roof of their mouth called a cleft palate. Intelligence is not affected.

Treatments

Plastic surgery can help correct facial structure. A multispecialty team approach to treatment is most helpful.