Oculo auriculo vertebral (OAV) spectrum abnormalities are a group of conditions that typically involve the cheekbones, jaws, mouth, ears and eyes. The bones of the spinal column may also be involved. It is important that an infant with craniofacial abnormalities be evaluated early in order to determine the cause and plan a course of treatment. Facial bone abnormalities can affect feeding, breathing, vision and hearing.
In most cases, these abnormalities appear to occur randomly with no apparent cause.
There are several types of oculo auriculo vertebral spectrum abnormalities; each type with different symptoms. Types of oculo auriculo vertebral spectrum include:
Conditions in the oculo auriculo vertebral spectrum present with varying degrees of severity. In general, these conditions are diagnosed through a physical exam by a team of pediatric craniofacial specialists. Imaging tests may also be conducted in conjunction with this evaluation in order to create an individualized treatment plan. Additionally, genetic testing may be recommended to confirm a diagnosis. Genetic counseling will also be provided during the genetic evaluation.
Treatment of oculo auriculo vertebral spectrum disorders involves surgery to reconstruct the affected portions of the face and skull. This course of treatment often requires multiple surgical procedures as your child develops, typically including skull, jaw, facial, eye and ear reconstruction. Children often begin treatment as infants and continue evaluation and treatment through their teen years.
A multidisciplinary team of doctors with the Cleft & Craniofacial Anomalies Program at Riley at IU Health treats children with conditions in the oculo auriculo vertebral spectrum. This team includes plastic surgeons, neurosurgeons, oral maxillofacial surgeons, ophthalmologists, orthodontists and other pediatric specialists. The program's multidisciplinary approach means that your child can generally see several specialists in one visit. This reduces the number of times your family must travel to our facility and makes receiving care more efficient.
Visit these websites for information and support related to oculo auriculo vertebral spectrum abnormalities.
Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.
This nonprofit organization addresses the medical, financial, psychosocial, emotional and educational concerns related to craniofacial syndromes, including hemifacial microsomia, Goldenhar syndrome and Treacher Collins syndrome.
The website of this nonprofit organization provides overviews on hemifacial microsomia, Goldenhar syndrome and Treacher Collins syndrome, along with information on other resources.
