Waardenburg Syndrome was named after the Dutch ophthalmologist Petrus Johannes Waardenburg who first identified when he saw that eyes colored differently have hearing impairment. It is a rare hereditary disease illustrated by different levels of hearing loss, facial bone defects skin irregularities. There are types of waardenburg syndrome which have more or less had the same symptoms and all are inherited. WS1 is the most common while WS2 shows signs of skin and hair color variance like early graying of hair as early as 12 years of age. The degree of hearing condition connected to this syndrome fluctuates from moderate to deep. Other types have been detected but are less common. Sometimes, Waardenburg Syndrome has been related to with other congenital conditions such as intestinal disorder, disorders of the spine and others.
Waardenburg Syndrome is believed to have caused congenital hearing loss. It is estimated as the reason for at least 2 to 3% of cases. The syndrome is a kind of sensorineural hearing loss. And hearing impairment of this type is usually is not reversible. It is acquired as a type of autosomal dominant characteristic.
This means that only parent has to pass on the gene for an offspring to be affected. There are no known specific treatments of the syndrome. But concentration should be focus on hearing deficits and hearing aids and not to forget education. When hearing problems are attended to, life can be less complicated. But treatment can be simple because of the availability of genetic testing. It has added an aspect to our ability to provide the best possible care for people with hearing loss.
In most cases, a hearing aid is prescribed. The usage of hearing aid can vary from patient to patient. There are some people with hearing impairment may benefit from hearing aids or amplification, others may not. Talking to a hearing disabled person and knowing what type of hearing loss he has can lead to accommodating their needs. Genetic counseling is always accessible for prospective parents with a history of Waardenburg Syndrome. It is always a good thing to call for a hearing test if you or your child has hearing loss or decreased hearing.
Hearing loss is one of the most widespread chronic health conditions in America presently. It concerns all people of all ages. Causes can vary from genetics or trauma. Understanding what causes hearing loss in a person can be beneficial. .
