Seckel syndrome, or microcephalic primordial dwarfism (also known as bird-headed dwarfism, Harper's syndrome, VirchowâÂÂSeckel dwarfism and bird-headed dwarf of Seckel) is an extremely rare congenital nanosomic disorder. Inheritance is autosomal recessive. It is characterized by intrauterine growth restriction and postnatal dwarfism with a small head, narrow bird-like face with a beak-like nose, large eyes with down-slanting palpebral fissures, receding mandible and intellectual disability.
A mouse model has been developed. This mouse model is characterized by a severe deficiency of ATR protein. These mice have high levels of replicative stress and DNA damage. Adult Seckel mice display accelerated aging. These findings are consistent with the DNA damage theory of aging.
Symptoms include:
It is believed to be caused by defects of genes on chromosome 3 and 18. One form of Seckel syndrome can be caused by mutation in the gene encoding the ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein () which maps to chromosome 3q22.1âÂÂq24. This gene is central in the cell's DNA damage response and repair mechanism.
Types include:
There are 4 criteria for diagnosis:
Other abnormalities can be a supportive criteria, such as: anemia, pancytopenia, cleft lip/palate scoliosis or kyphoscoliosis.
Genetic testing can confirm diagnosis.
There is no cure for Seckel syndrome. Symptomatic treatment is available.
The syndrome was named after GermanâÂÂAmerican physician Helmut Paul George Seckel (1900âÂÂ1960). The synonym Harper's syndrome was named after pediatrician Rita G. Harper.