Causes And Complications Linked To DiGeorge Syndrome

Cleft Palate

A cleft palate is also common with DiGeorge syndrome. Cleft palates involve an abnormal opening found in the roof of an individual's mouth. There might be a cleft lip as well, but this doesn't always occur. There may also be other palate abnormalities that, while less immediately visible, can make it difficult to pronounce certain sounds or swallow. The cleft palate might occur alongside distinctive facial features like small and low-set ears, hooded eyes, an enlarged nose tip, or a short groove inset into the upper lip. Cleft palates occur when developing facial structures don't completely close prior to birth. Most babies can undergo several surgeries to have a relatively normal appearance and function restored.

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Heart Defects

There are a number of heart defects related to DiGeorge syndrome that can cause an insufficient supply of properly oxygenated blood. One defect might involve a hole between the heart's lower chambers, otherwise known as a ventricular septal defect. There may also be one large vessel that leads out of the heart instead of two, which leads to improper blood flow throughout the body. It's also possible patients will have a combination of four abnormal structures in the heart. In addition to heart defects, there may be other abnormalities of the cardiovascular system found in the aortic arch, semilunar valves, infundibular septum, and pulmonary arteries. These abnormalities can make surgical correction complicated.

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