hypotelorism
Pronunciation: hi-po-TEL-or-ism
Abnormally decreased distance between the eyes, often associated with midface deformities.
Full Definition
Hypotelorism refers to an abnormally narrow distance between the medial walls of the orbits, resulting in closely spaced eyes. This condition is often associated with midface hypoplasia, holoprosencephaly, or craniosynostosis affecting the metopic suture. Hypotelorism can be measured using intercanthal distance or interorbital distance on imaging studies. Severe cases may require surgical correction through orbital hypertelorism procedures involving controlled fractures and bone grafting to increase the distance between the orbits. The condition can be isolated or part of various craniofacial syndromes and may affect both function and facial aesthetics.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from telecanthus, which involves only soft tissue spacing of the eyelids.
In Context
- "The CT scan revealed significant hypotelorism with an interorbital distance below the fifth percentile." — radiology report
- "Surgical correction of the hypotelorism was planned as part of the comprehensive craniofacial reconstruction." — treatment planning documentation