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Extremely rare inherited disorder that may be apparent at birth (congenital) or during early infancy. It is characterized by hypopigmentation of the skin, silvery-gray hair, and abnormalities of the central nervous system that affect the eyes (microphthalmia) and the oculocerebral functional areas.

Cross Syndrome; Kramer Syndrome; Depigmentation-Gingival Fibromatosis-Microphthalmia Syndrome.

Believed to be inherited as an autosomal recessive genetic trait. Affects males and females equally. However, fewer than 15 cases have been reported in the medical literature. Most of the observed cases occurred within families.

Abnormally small eyes, lack of skin and characteristic hair color are usually congenital and therefore apparent at birth. The skin is usually very light and may be extremely sensitive to exposure to the sun. The hair is often silvery or silvery-gray at birth. In addition, infants may be abnormally sensitive to light (photosensitivity). Later during infancy, neurologic abnormalities (e.g., athetoid movements, ataxia, movement of the head beyond the normal range of motion [hyperextension], and increased muscle rigidity or spasticity) may become apparent after age 3 months. In more severe cases, children may experience lack of voluntary movements of the arms and legs (spastic tetraplegia). Other neurologic symptoms may include exaggerated reflexes and/or joint immobility. The legs, arms, shoulders, and hips are most often involved. Affected individuals may have a high-pitched cry or make constant sucking sounds. Patients may exhibit mental retardation and growth retardation, and psychomotor development is often delayed (e.g., holding up the head, sitting, walking). Infants may present severe microphthalmia (unilateral or bilateral) associated with microcornea. The presence of corneal opacity, glaucoma, and horizontal nystagmus can be noted. Ectropion palpebral conjunctivae, cataracts, and optic nerve atrophy have been reported. Such eye abnormalities may result in varying degrees of visual impairment or blindness. Some affected infants exhibit gingival fibromatosis when the first teeth emerge at age 6 months to 3 years. Other symptoms (e.g., developmental delays, mental retardation) may become apparent later during infancy or childhood.

No specific anesthetic considerations or implications with this syndrome, except in the presence of open glaucoma.

Chediak-Higashi Syndrome: Rare inherited disorder characterized by oculocutaneous albinism, visual difficulties, and immune system deficiencies. The hair is typically blond or light brown with a silvery tint. Affected infants may exhibit photosensitivity, nystagmus, and ataxia. It is inherited as an autosomal recessive genetic trait.

Hermansky-Pudlak Syndrome (HPS): Rare inherited disorder characterized by albinism, platelet dysfunction with prolonged bleeding time, visual impairment, and abnormal storage of a fatty-like substance in various tissues of the body. The skin, hair, and eyes may vary in color from very pale to almost normal coloring. Other symptoms include easy bruising, bleeding gingivae, and excessive bleeding after surgery or trauma. It is inherited as an autosomal recessive genetic trait.

Albinism: Group of rare inherited disorders characterized by hypopigmentation or complete depigmentation of the skin, hair, and eyes at birth. Patients manifest severe ...

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