General Information About Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is a genetic disorder where babies are born much larger than normal and organs grow uncontrollably as a result of the faulty regulation of growth genes on the 11th chromosome.
A tongue too large to fit in the mouth, an umbilical hernia at birth (omphalocele), one half of the body being larger than the other (hemihyperplasia), and episodes of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) during the newborn period.
Having a very large tongue can make it difficult for the baby to feed, swallow, and breathe. It can cause speech disorders at older ages, and surgical reduction may be required.
Yes. Children with this syndrome have a higher risk of developing kidney (Wilms tumor) and liver (Hepatoblastoma) cancers compared to normal children.
The syndrome alone does not cause intellectual disability. Their cognitive development is generally completely normal.
It is vital that children are closely monitored against the risk of cancer with detailed abdominal ultrasounds and blood AFP (tumor marker) levels every 3 months, especially during the first 8 years.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
