Individuals with hemifacial microsomia most likely exhibit which condition?

Individuals with hemifacial microsomia most likely exhibit which condition?

• A. Laryngeal dysfunction
• B. Ear malformation
• C. Webbed fingers and toes
• D. Widely spaced eyes

Answer: (B)

Individuals with hemifacial microsomia primarily experience ear malformations as a hallmark of the condition. Hemifacial microsomia is characterized by underdevelopment of one side of the face, which often includes anomalies of the ear (auricle) and the structures associated with it. This condition can lead to external ear shapes that are atypical, reduced ear size, or complete absence of the ear on the affected side. The close association between hemifacial microsomia and ear malformations is well documented, making ear malformations the most likely condition to be exhibited by these individuals. The other conditions mentioned do not have a direct correlation with hemifacial microsomia. For example, laryngeal dysfunction is not a typical finding associated with this facial deformity. Webbed fingers and toes (syndactyly) and widely spaced eyes can occur in various congenital syndromes, but they are not specifically linked to hemifacial microsomia. This distinction is crucial for understanding the multifaceted aspects of congenital anomalies and their specific manifestations.

Individuals with hemifacial microsomia primarily experience ear malformations as a hallmark of the condition. Hemifacial microsomia is characterized by underdevelopment of one side of the face, which often includes anomalies of the ear (auricle) and the structures associated with it. This condition can lead to external ear shapes that are atypical, reduced ear size, or complete absence of the ear on the affected side. The close association between hemifacial microsomia and ear malformations is well documented, making ear malformations the most likely condition to be exhibited by these individuals.

The other conditions mentioned do not have a direct correlation with hemifacial microsomia. For example, laryngeal dysfunction is not a typical finding associated with this facial deformity. Webbed fingers and toes (syndactyly) and widely spaced eyes can occur in various congenital syndromes, but they are not specifically linked to hemifacial microsomia. This distinction is crucial for understanding the multifaceted aspects of congenital anomalies and their specific manifestations.