Treacher-Collins Syndrome

What is Treacher-Collins Syndrome?

Treacher-Collins syndrome is a condition that is passed down through families (hereditary) and leads to defects of the face.

Treacher Collins

What if my child has Treacher-Collins syndrome?

Patients with Treacher-Collins syndrome in addition to having bilateral microtia also have abnormalities in the upper and lower jaws, zygomatic arch, malar eminence (cheek bone) and eyelids. As a craniofacial surgeon Dr. Griffiths is well equipped to treat each of these deformities depending upon the individual needs of your child including the latest techniques in orthognathic surgery and osseous distraction. Please contact our office for more information. Regarding your child’s bilateral microtia, Dr. Griffiths can easily reconstruct both ears. The number of operations required depends on the type of vascularized covering you choose. If a temporal parietal fascia flap is used then both ears can be reconstructed in usually two operations. If the 3-stage technique of Brent is used then four operations will be needed.

What are the Symptoms of Treacher-Collins Syndrome?

Outer part of the ears are abnormal or almost completely missing
Hearing loss
Very small jaw (micrognathia)
Very large mouth
Defect in the lower eyelid (coloboma)
Scalp hair that reaches to the cheeks
Cleft palate

What are the Causes of Treacher-Collins Syndrome?

Treacher-Collins syndrome is caused by a defective protein called treacle. The condition is passed down through families (inherited). More than half of all cases are thought to be due to new gene changes (mutations) because there is no family history of the disease.

This condition may vary in severity from generation to generation and from person to person.

What are the Treatment options for Treacher-Collins Syndrome?

Coming Soon ...

Useful Readings & Links

Goldenhar Syndrome Support Network
The National Craniofacial Association, “Goldenhar Syndrome.”
Goldenhar Family Support Group (UK)