Dwarfism


 * __Genetic disorder: Dwarfism__ By Alejandro and James

__Description of Dwarfism:__** There are three types of dwarfism: rhizomelic, mesomelic, and acromelic. Some forms of dwarfism are associated with disorder function of organs; it can be really severe and can be more disabling than abnormal bone growth. Dwarfism refers to to someone extremely small in size. It can happen in animals, people or plants.

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 * __Effects:__**

The effects of dwarfism on an organism are: The size can restrict the growth of the body, lungs and reduce pulmonary function, which is reduced to 2-3 feet tall. A dwarf’s body is very unusual compared to an average person, the bones are structured differently which causes pains and joint diseases. The difficulties of dwarfism in childhood are breathing difficulties caused by small nasal passages, ear infections which are also caused by narrowed nasal passages. Bowed legs which are strait at the beginning but they bow as the baby starts walking due to the weight. Arms and legs get different average height. Arms and feet get shorter. Dwarfs get less mobility on elbows because of joints. Other joints usually get extremely flexible. Head continues to grow and becomes bigger compared to his body. Dwarfs get crowded teeth because their upper jaw is gets smaller. The bridge of the nose becomes flat. The lower spine gets a backward curve. Adults have trouble with obesity for maintaining a normal weight for their height. Nerves in lower back are compressed. Pregnant dwarfs need expert care.

The problems can be both physical and social. It can affect you daily live like being unable to drive. Dwarfism may affect self-esteem.



__**Treatment / Prognosis:**__

The genetic cause that causes dwarfism occurs during conception. Doctors can’t find out what really causes dwarfism. But if one parent has dwarfism, his offspring has fifty percent chance of being a dwarf. If both parents have dwarfism then the offspring can get a “double dominant” gene, which causes the offspring to not be able to live beyond twelve months. Even if doctors can’t cure dwarfism, they can treat it by reducing the pain, increasing adult height, and adapting them to social life. Pains can be stopped with surgery, therapy, or with special machines.


 * __Discussion Questions:__**

1. What are the three types of dwarfism and how is dwarfism spread? 2. What happens to the offspring when both parents are dwarfs? 3. What are the big risks of dwarfism?

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