Webbed neck

Webbed Neck

A webbed neck, also known as pterygium colli, is a medical condition characterized by a low hairline and extra skin folds on the side of the neck. This condition is often associated with certain genetic disorders, most notably Turner Syndrome and Noonan Syndrome.

Definition

Webbed neck is defined as a neck with excessive skin folds, which gives the appearance of the neck being shorter and wider than usual. The skin may appear to be "webbed" or "winged," hence the name. The condition is typically present at birth and is often a sign of an underlying genetic disorder.

Causes

Webbed neck is most commonly associated with Turner Syndrome, a genetic disorder that affects only females and is characterized by the partial or complete absence of one of the two X chromosomes. It is also associated with Noonan Syndrome, a genetic disorder that can affect both males and females and is characterized by a wide range of features including heart defects, short stature, and certain facial features.

Other less common conditions associated with webbed neck include Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome, Costello Syndrome, and LEOPARD Syndrome.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of webbed neck is usually made through a physical examination. The doctor may also order genetic testing to confirm the presence of a genetic disorder such as Turner Syndrome or Noonan Syndrome.

Treatment

Treatment for webbed neck typically involves surgery to remove the excess skin and improve the appearance of the neck. This is usually done for cosmetic reasons, as the condition does not typically cause any physical discomfort or health problems.

See Also

• Turner Syndrome
• Noonan Syndrome
• Cardiofaciocutaneous Syndrome
• Costello Syndrome
• LEOPARD Syndrome

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