Syndromes Associated With Microtia
Sometimes microtia is a result of a more serious condition which happens to involve the ears. The most common syndromes are Goldenhar syndrome and Treacher Collins syndrome.
Goldenhar Syndrome
Goldenhar syndrome is a variant of Hemifacial Microsomia. Both of these conditions can be unilateral or bilateral. Goldenhar syndrome involves the incomplete development of the ear (microtia), nose, soft palate, lip and jaw as well as epibular dermoids (benign tumors involving the eyes). Other organs such as the heart, kidneys and lungs may also be undeveloped or, in rare cases, absent.
Treacher Collins Syndrome
Treacher Collins syndrome is a rare condition (one in 10,000 births) affecting the face which results in small or absent cheekbones, abnormal eyelids, small or absent ears (microtia) and a small jaw. The severity of the condition can range from barely noticeable to quite severe.
