Pili Torti and Nerve Deafness

Pili Torti and Nerve Deafness

Article
Ear, Nose, & Throat (ENT)
Sexual Health
+4
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBANov 25, 2020

The topic Pili Torti and Nerve Deafness you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Bjornstad Syndrome.

Quick Summary:

  • Bjornstad Syndrome (BJS or Björnstad Syndrome) is a very rare genetic disorder that leads to abnormal hair growth and hearing loss. It is caused by the inheritance of mutations in the BCS1L gene. It is also known as Pili Torti and Nerve Deafness (PTND)
  • The syndrome follows an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern, such that an individual must have two copies of the mutated BCS1L gene in order to have the disorder. Thus, a family history of Bjornstad Syndrome is the single greatest risk factor for a child to be born with the syndrome
  • The signs and symptoms of Bjornstad Syndrome include patches of hair loss in a child. If there is hair on the scalp, it is often dry, brittle, and coarse. Additionally, the condition can also cause deafness and underdeveloped reproductive organs
  • A child may be diagnosed with Bjornstad Syndrome right after birth due to the presence of twisted hair (termed pili torti). The hair shafts may be examined under an electron microscope to identify the characteristic features. Also, specialized hearing tests are administered to evaluate nerve deafness
  • The complications of Bjornstad Syndrome often are related to mutations in the BCS1L gene, which can lead to mitochondrial complex III deficiency. Apart from this, individuals may show irreversible hearing loss and premature baldness
  • There is currently no specific treatments available for Bjornstad Syndrome; however, a management of the symptoms, such as abnormal hair growth and hearing loss, may be undertaken by a qualified healthcare provider. Even though the affected individuals have a normal lifespan, permanent hearing loss and other associated symptoms remain lifelong
  • Presently, there are no available preventative measures for Bjornstad Syndrome, although genetic counseling and testing prior to planning for a child may help in assessing the risks of a couple having a child with the disorder

Please find comprehensive information on Bjornstad Syndrome regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

Was this article helpful

On the Article

Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
Approved by

Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

0 Comments

Please log in to post a comment.

Related Articles

Test Your Knowledge

Asked by users

Related Centers

Loading

Related Specialties

Loading card

Related Physicians

Related Procedures

Related Resources

Join DoveHubs

and connect with fellow professionals

Related Directories

Who we are

At DoveMed, our utmost priority is your well-being. We are an online medical resource dedicated to providing you with accurate and up-to-date information on a wide range of medical topics. But we're more than just an information hub - we genuinely care about your health journey. That's why we offer a variety of products tailored for both healthcare consumers and professionals, because we believe in empowering everyone involved in the care process.
Our mission is to create a user-friendly healthcare technology portal that helps you make better decisions about your overall health and well-being. We understand that navigating the complexities of healthcare can be overwhelming, so we strive to be a reliable and compassionate companion on your path to wellness.
As an impartial and trusted online resource, we connect healthcare seekers, physicians, and hospitals in a marketplace that promotes a higher quality, easy-to-use healthcare experience. You can trust that our content is unbiased and impartial, as it is trusted by physicians, researchers, and university professors around the globe. Importantly, we are not influenced or owned by any pharmaceutical, medical, or media companies. At DoveMed, we are a group of passionate individuals who deeply care about improving health and wellness for people everywhere. Your well-being is at the heart of everything we do.

© 2023 DoveMed. All rights reserved. It is not the intention of DoveMed to provide specific medical advice. DoveMed urges its users to consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and answers to their personal medical questions. Always call 911 (or your local emergency number) if you have a medical emergency!