Hemihyperplasia (hemihypertrophy): drugs, symptoms, etc. & bull; hello healthy

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Definition

What is hemihyperplasia?

Hemihyperplasia is a rare inherited disorder that causes one side of the body to develop abnormally compared to the other side. As a result, the appearance of the body becomes asymmetrical. Hemihyperplasia is caused by an overproduction of cells. In the past, this condition was known as hemihypertrophy.

In a normal body, there is a "smart" program that will prevent the cells from growing bigger once they reach a certain size. However, in people with hemihypertrophy, cells on one side of the body can't stop growing. This causes areas of the body to continue to develop abnormally.

This condition usually affects only one of the limbs, fingers, feet, face, or the entire body including half of the brain and internal organs.

Generally, hemihyperplasia is a harmless condition, although you still have to see which part of the body is affected. This condition can be an indication of cancer.

How common is hemihypertrophy?

This condition is very common and generally affects children. The condition can affect both men and women.

Hemihypertrophy can be treated by reducing risk factors. Talk to your doctor for more information.

Signs and Symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of hemihyperplasia?

• The most obvious symptom of hemihyperplasia is a tendency for one side of the body to be larger than the other
• Hands or feet can be longer or larger in diameter
• In some cases, the body or face is on one side larger
• Sometimes the condition is not very obvious unless the individual is lying on a bed or a flat surface (called bed test)
• In other cases, differences in posture and gait can be seen
• Children with hemihypertrophy are at higher risk for tumors, especially of the stomach. Tumors are abnormal growths that may be benign (not potentially cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
• In hemihypertrophy, the cells that form tumors often lose the ability to stop or "shut down" the growth mechanism. Wilms' tumor, which is cancer that occurs in the kidneys, is the most common.

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have any signs or symptoms above or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.

Cause

What causes this condition?

It is not certain what causes this condition, although it is believed that hemihypertrophy is passed down from the family. Genetic mutations are also believed to be the cause, especially mutations in gene 11. This disorder is also unpredictable because genetic involvement is shown to be different from person to person.

The appearance of this condition in children appears to be linked to other genetic syndromes, such as Beckwith-Weidemann syndrome and other genetic syndromes.

Diagnosis and Treatment

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is hemihypertrophy diagnosed?

A physical examination is usually carried out. Symptoms are linked to other conditions, such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS), Proteus syndrome, Russell-Silver syndrome, and Sotos syndrome.

Imaging tests may be needed to check for the presence of a tumor.

Since this disorder is rare and often overlooked, it is recommended that a diagnosis be made by a clinical geneticist who is familiar with the condition.

How is hemihyperplasia treated?

Hemihyperplasia is usually not life threatening except for the time when it is associated with other types of cancer.

Children born with hemihypertrophy are usually more at risk of cancer, especially of the stomach.

There is no cure for this condition. Treatment focuses on examining tumor growth and treating tumors. For abnormal limb size, orthopedic treatment and corrective shoes may be recommended.

Prevention

What can I do independently to treat hemihypertrophy?

Since most cancers occur in the stomach, it is recommended that children with hemihyperplasia receive an ultrasound of the abdomen every 3 months until age 7 and, at least, a physical exam every 6 months until growth stops.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.