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Medical Encyclopedia

Encyclopedia -> Symptoms -> S -> Short philtrum

Short philtrum

Considerations: Facial features are characteristics dictated by genetic inheritance. Genetic abnormalities may predispose individuals to changes in features. The length of the philtrum, which is the midline groove in the upper lip that runs from the top of the lip to the nose, is determined genetically. In some syndromes this grove is shortened.

Common Causes:

  • Cohen syndrome
  • oral-facial-digital syndrome

Home Care:

  • Call your health care professional.
  • There is usually no home care needed for a short philtrum, however, if this is only one symptom of an underlying condition, follow your doctors instructions on how to care for the condition.

Call If:

  • you notice a short philtrum on your child.

What To Expect: An infant with a short philtrum will generally have other symptoms and signs that, when taken together, define a specific syndrome or condition. Diagnosis of that condition is based on a family history, medical history, and thorough physical evaluation.

Medical history questions documenting short philtrum in detail may include:

  • Did you notice this when the child was born?
  • Have any other family members had this facial feature?
  • Have any other family members been diagnosed with a disorder associated with short philtrum?
  • What other symptoms are also present?
Diagnostic tests:
Laboratory studies such as chromosome studies, enzyme assays, X-rays and metabolic studies may be ordered to confirm the presence of a suspected disorder.

After seeing your health care provider:
If a diagnosis was made by your health care provider associated with a short philtrum, you may want to note that diagnosis in your personal medical record.

Disclaimer: The text presented on these pages is for your information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It may not represent your true individual medical situation. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified health care provider. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions or concerns.

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