Everything Patients Need To Know About Goldenhar Syndrome

Outlook For Patients

Although Goldenhar syndrome does affect multiple body systems, the outlook for the vast majority of patients is good, and they can live a normal lifespan. This includes enjoying many of the typical pursuits those without health issues do, such as having children and enjoying their work. However, to obtain the optimal outcome, continued treatment and monitoring are required for patients with Goldenhar syndrome. This treatment will vary not only from patient to patientbut also based on the condition’s progression in each individual. That being said, the typical medical professionals involved in continued treatment include orthopedists (bone and muscle), pulmonologist (breathing), cardiologist (heart), urologist (kidney and bladder), audiologist (hearing), speech therapist, as well as physical and occupational therapists.

With this knowledge dealing with Goldenhar syndrome is completely manageable. Just remember, persistence is key!

Complications Of Goldenhar Syndrome

Goldenhar syndrome has been associated with several potential complications that arise from the structural or functional abnormalities that develop in patients. Between five and fifty-eight percent of affected individuals develop congenital heart defects or cardiac anomalies that may need to be corrected through surgical procedures. Between five and fifteen percent of Goldenhar syndrome patients will experience reduced visual acuity and other visual manifestations. Individuals affected by Goldenhar syndrome may develop many other complications, such as delayed dental development, conductive hearing loss, disorders associated with an abnormal vertebral arrangement and vertebrae formation, benign tumor formation over the sclera or cornea, intellectual disabilities, learning disorders, and issues with breathing, eating, and swallowing. Complications of Goldenhar syndrome are not limited to those listed and can vary depending on which part of a patient's face, head, or neck is affected.