Warning Signs Of Senior Loken Syndrome

Short Stature

Patients with Senior Loken syndrome are typically short in stature. Doctors define short stature as a height that falls within the lowest two percentiles of the patient's peer group. To properly assess a child's height and determine if they meet the criteria for short stature, doctors must take accurate, detailed measurements at multiple appointments over a period of at least three to six months. Ideally, the patient should have their growth checked regularly over a span of six months to one year.

If the patient is under two years old, their body length will be recorded with a horizontal rule, and children aged two years old and above will have their height measured with a stadiometer (a wall-mounted measuring device). Weight will be recorded for all patients, and young children may also have their head size measured. Where appropriate, doctors may calculate an older child's body mass index. These measurements will be plotted on a growth chart at every appointment, and doctors will use these charts to determine whether a child is at a healthy growth percentile.

Hypertension

Hypertension in patients with Senior Loken syndrome is generally related to the renal issues that occur with this condition. High blood pressure is defined as equal to or greater than 130/80. To diagnose hypertension, the doctor will take at least three blood pressure measurements on three different days. Readings may be taken in both arms, and patients may also be asked to use an at-home monitoring device for a few days to provide more information. The majority of patients with this syndrome will have high blood pressure in childhood, and it is normally necessary to take medications for proper management.

Calcium channel blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and angiotensin II receptor blockers are among the most commonly prescribed medications for reducing blood pressure. Patients with renal issues, including individuals with Senior Loken syndrome, may especially benefit from using ACE inhibitors or angiotensin II receptor blockers. During treatment with these medications, patients will have regular appointments to monitor their blood pressure and check the medications are effectively reducing it. Occasionally, patients may need to add other medications such as beta blockers, alpha blockers, or vasodilators to their treatment plan to sufficiently lower their blood pressure.