Congenital Athelia and Cleft Palate: A Case Report of Two Generations

Athelia is a rare condition and is almost always associated with other congenital anomalies. There is a heterogeneous pattern of associated clinical features and inheritance concerning this condition. In this case report, we reported a Chinese patient and her father with congenital athelia associated with cleft palate and sparse hair. Pedigree analysis suggests an autosomal dominant inheritance. A brief account on the related embryology, terminology and classification of the condition is reviewed. Possible underlying causes of the associated features and management issues are discussed.