Basics of Hutchinson-Gilford Syndrome (Progeria)
What does HGP stand for?
- The HGP in HGP Syndrome stands for Hutchison-Gilford Progeria.
When do the signs for HGP begin to show?
- At birth and throughout infancy, affected children appear normal. It is only during early childhood, around one and a half to two years of age, are when symptoms for HGP begin.
What are some of these signs?
- Some of the signs are lack of weight gain and overall physical development. Some of the distinct facial characteristics include prominent eyes, a thin nose with a beaked tip, thin lips, a small chin, and protruding ears. The syndrome also causes hair loss, aged-looking skin, joint abnormalities, and a loss of fat under the skin. This condition does not disrupt intellectual development or the development of motor skills such as sitting, standing, and walking.
How common is HGP Syndrome?
- It is reported to occur in one out of every four million babies born worldwide.
What is the average life expectancy of someone diagnosed?
- The average life expectancy of a child diagnosed is around 10-15 years, however there are records of some patients who lived into their twenties.
Are there any known cures?
- No none cures habe yet been found.
Are there any organizations dedicated to promoting awareness or searching for a cure?
- Yes, PRF is the Progeria Research Foundation founded by Drs. Leslie Gordon and Scott Burns. It was and still is dedicated to research in the field of the disease as well as promoting awareness to the public and raising money for further research.
How many know cases exist throughtout the world today?
- There are 89 cases of Progeria known throughout the world today in 32 countries.
Further Research: http://www.progeriaresearch.org/progeria_101.html