Pierre Robin Sequence

Pierre Robin Sequence is a rare group of deformities affecting the head and jaw, sometimes connected with other abnormal developments in other parts of the body.

It is typically characterized by a smaller than normal lower jaw (called “micrognathia”), a tongue positioned farther back in the mouth than normal (called “glossoptosis”), and general obstruction of the airways. The syndrome also usually includes a cleft palate.

Though in some cases the growth of the lower jaw may catch up in later years, in infancy and childhood the malformation may cause breathing and eating problems. These will require the insertion of tubes or surgery to prevent or alleviate the blockage or to reposition the jaw.