Abstract

Asphyxiating thoracic dysplasia or Jeune syndrome is a ciliopathy.It is also known as "Jeune syndrome".

It was described in 1955.

Types

Jeune syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the way a child’s cartilage and bones develop. It begins before the child is born. Jeune syndrome affects the child's rib cage, pelvis, arms and legs.

Usually, problems with the rib cage cause the most serious health problems for children with Jeune syndrome. Their rib cages (thorax) are smaller and narrower than usual. This can keep the child's lungs from developing fully or expanding when the child inhales. The child may breathe rapidly and shallowly. They may have trouble breathing when they have an upper or lower respiratory infection, like pneumonia.

Breathing trouble can range from mild to severe. In some children, it is not noticeable, aside from fast breathing. In most children, breathing problems are serious. About 60% to 70% of children with this condition die from respiratory failure as babies or young children.

Children with Jeune syndrome who survive often develop problems with their kidneys, another serious feature of Jeune syndrome. Over time they may experience renal failure.

As a result, few children with Jeune syndrome live into their teen years.

Children with Jeune syndrome have a form of dwarfism. They are short in stature, and their arms and legs are shorter than most people’s.

Another name for Jeune syndrome is asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy. This diagnosis is grouped with other chest problems called thoracic insufficiency syndrome (TIS).