micrognathia
Pronunciation: my-kro-NATH-ee-ah
Underdevelopment of the jaw, particularly the mandible, often associated with airway complications.
Full Definition
Micrognathia is a congenital condition characterized by an abnormally small or underdeveloped mandible (lower jaw). This condition can occur in isolation or as part of various syndromes such as Pierre Robin sequence or Treacher Collins syndrome. Micrognathia often leads to functional problems including feeding difficulties, speech impairment, and potentially life-threatening airway obstruction in newborns. Treatment may involve mandibular distraction osteogenesis in infancy or orthognathic surgery in adolescence to advance the mandible and improve both function and facial aesthetics.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with microgenia, which refers specifically to a small chin rather than the entire mandible.
In Context
- "The newborn's severe micrognathia necessitated immediate airway management and consideration for mandibular distraction." — neonatal consultation
- "Cephalometric analysis revealed significant micrognathia with a decreased ANB angle." — orthodontic evaluation