Cleft palate associated with Klippel-Feil syndrome. Report of a case

Klippel-Feil syndrome in children: clinical features and management

A retrospective analysis of 11 children with the diagnosis of Klippel-Feil syndrome treated at the University of Minnesota Hospital over a period of 20 years is presented. The salient features of the syndrome and its associated anomalies are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on its neurological aspects, particularly the potential risks of injury to the craniocervical junction and cervical spine. Guidelines for the management of these patients are suggested.

Identification and management of high-risk patients with Klippel-Feil syndrome

Patients with Klippel-Feil syndrome are often at high risk for neurological injury. The cervicomedullary junction and cervical spinal cord are especially vulnerable. Twenty-one patients examined and treated over a 20-year period are reviewed. The salient features of the syndrome are identified, and an approach to management is proposed.

Autosomal recessive Klippel-Feil syndrome

An inbred kindred with 12 cases of Klippel-Feil syndrome (seven females and five males) is reported. Inheritance is undoubtedly autosomal recessive. The main characteristic of the syndrome is fusion of cervical vertebrae.

Dominant transmission of Sprengel's shoulder and cleft palate

We present a family showing apparently autosomal dominant transmission of Sprengel's shoulder with cleft palate. Some, but not all, of the kindred showed features of the Klippel-Feil syndrome. The association between these abnormalities is discussed.