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Short philtrum

Definition

A short philtrum is a shorter-than-normal distance between the upper lip and the nose.

Considerations

The philtrum is the groove that runs from the top of the lip to the nose.

The length of the philtrum is passed down from parents to their children through genes. This groove is shortened in people with certain conditions.

Causes

  • Chromosome 18q deletion syndrome
  • Cohen syndrome
  • DiGeorge syndrome
  • Oral-facial-digital syndrome (OFD)

Review Date: 2/5/2008
Reviewed By: Chad Haldeman-Englert, MD, Division of Human Genetics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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