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Article
December 1953

CHONDRODYSPLASIA (ACHONDROPLASIA) IN ONE OF DIZYGOTIC TWINS

Author Affiliations

ROCHESTER, MINN.
Fellow in Pediatrics, Mayo Foundation, University of Minnesota Graduate School (Dr. Slungaard); from the Section of Pediatrics, Mayo Clinic (Dr. Harris).

AMA Am J Dis Child. 1953;86(6):788-794. doi:10.1001/archpedi.1953.02050080803011
Abstract

THE TERM "chondrodysplasia" is used to denote a condition characterized by faulty development of cartilage and growth of bone in the ossification centers of bones of nonmembranous origin, while the periosteal formation of bone takes place at a normal or a slightly increased rate. The disturbance involves chiefly longitudinal growth resulting in widening of the epiphyses, irregularity of the epiphyseal lines, and short thickened bones as seen in the roentgenograms.1 Clinically the condition manifests itself in typical cases by shortness of stature. This is due to shortness of the legs, but the trunk is of normal length. The arms rarely extend beyond the trochanters. The hands are broad, short, and often trident. The head appears large with sunken nasal bridge and prominent forehead and lower jaw.

This condition is often called "achondroplasia." The prefixa, however, means "no" and the word "achondroplasia" would indicate a condition in which formation

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