Failed intubation in a case of oculoauriculovertebral dysplasia (Goldenhar's syndrome).

Goldenhar's syndrome (oculo-auriculo-vertebral dysplasia) is characterised by epibulbar dermoids, auricular appendages, and vertebral anomalies including occipito-atlanto fusion, wedge and block vertebra, hernivertebra, spina bifida, and/or scoliosis. In addition to the above anomalies there are unilateral colobomas and occasionally microphthalmia; cataract or atrophy of the iris. The ears show bilateral appendages, and pretragal fistulae; occasionally microtia and deafness are present. The external auditory canal may be absent. The facies is characteristic with frontal bossing, hypomandibulosis, and sometimes poorly developed nostrils givinga "parrot-like" appearance. Maxillary hypoplasia, micrognathia, high arched palate, and dental malformation are also seen. Mental deficiency occurs in only 10-15% cases. Associated defects of heart, lungs and extremities are not infrequently present. No inherited pattern is known.' Goldenhar's syndrome is sometimes associated with hemifacial microsomia of which it may be a variant and both of these conditions show some resemblance to manidibulofacial dysostosis.