The National                       Craniofacial                                Association
P. O. Box 11082 * Chattanooga, TN 37401
800- 332-2373

Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome


What is Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome?
Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome is a very rare disorder characterized by the following traits:

 

Why did this happen?
Saethre-Chotzen is usually found in several generations of a family, as it is an inherited disorder; however, because the features are often so minor, many times it is never diagnosed. It is an "autosomal dominant" disorder caused by a change or "mutation" in only one copy of a gene from one biologic parent. The altered gene is located on chromosome 7.

Will this happen to children I have in the future?
Because it is an "autosomal dominant" disorder, there is a 50% chance of passing on Saethre-Chotzen to the child.

What kinds of problems could my child have?
In addition to the physical characteristics, growth delays may occur, leading to less than average adult height.

Will my child need surgery?
Very often, the physical characteristics are so mild that no surgical treatment is necessary. Facial appearance tends to improve as the child grows; however, the following may by necessary:

New advances and research into the problems connected to Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome are constantly occurring. Be an advocate for your child!

How do I get help for my child?
Your child should be treated by a qualified craniofacial medical team at a craniofacial center. Currently, FACES has information on sixty-four craniofacial teams located in 27 states, the District of Columbia, and Canada. This is by no means a comprehensive list of all the craniofacial teams. Please contact FACES for details.

Am I alone?
No! There are many families and organizations who will be glad to talk with you and help you with information and support. Don't forget books, videos, and websites. The listing on the next page will get you started.

FACES: The National Craniofacial Association
P. O. Box 11082
Chattanooga, TN 37401
(800) 332-2373
email: faces@faces-cranio.org
We provide financial support for non-medical expenses to patients traveling to a craniofacial center for treatment. Eligibility is based on financial and medical need. Resources include newsletters, information about craniofacial conditions, and networking opportunities.

Headlines, Craniofacial Support
44 Helmsdale Road
Leamington Spa, CV32 7DW
United Kingdom
Email: SJMoody@compuserve.com
Website: http://www.headlines.org.uk
This excellent international organization has a booklet on Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome, as well as a support network of families dealing with this syndrome. They also have a number of journal articles relating to Saethre-Chotzen.

Alliance of Genetic Support Groups
4301 Connecticut Avenue - Suite 404
Washington, DC 2008
(800) 336-4363
email: info@geneticalliance.org
website: http://www.geneticalliance.org
Request information about Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome.

MUMS
National Parent to Parent Organization
c/o Julie Gordon
150 Custer Court
Green Bay, WI 54301-1243
Toll free  (877) 336-5333
http://www.netnet.net/mums/
This organization helps you get in touch with parents in your area whose children also have Saethre-Chotzen Syndrome.

National Health Law Program
1101 14th Street, NW, Suite 405
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 289-7661
Website: http://www.healthlaw.org
Provides extensive information on health care law affecting families with children who have special health care needs.

Children with Facial Difference: A Parent's Guide.
Written by Hope Charkins, MSW.
Order from Amazon.com if you cannot find it in your local bookstore.
Excellent resource for parents to help them cope with medical, emotional, social, educational, legal, and financial challenges presented by facial differences of their children.

Let's Face It
Email:  faceit@umich.edu
Excellent Resource! Very comprehensive listing of resources available for people with facial differences.


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Last modified on: Thursday, February 10, 2011 02:59 PM

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