Skeletal dysplasias in Latin America
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Date
2020
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Abstract
Skeletal dysplasias (SD) are disturbances in growth due to defects intrinsic to the
bone and/or cartilage, usually affecting multiple bones and having a progressive character. In this article, we review the state of clinical and research SD resources available in Latin America, including three specific countries (Brazil, Argentina, and Chile),
that have established multidisciplinary clinics for the care of these patients. From the
epidemiological point of view, the SD prevalence of 3.2 per 10,000 births from nine
South American countries included in the ECLAMC network represents the most
accurate estimate not just in Latin America, but worldwide. In Brazil, there are currently five groups focused on SD. The data from one of these groups including the
website www.ocd.med.br, created to assist in the diagnosis of SD, are highlighted
showing that telemedicine for this purpose represents a good strategy for the region.
The experience of more than 30 years of the SD multidisciplinary clinic in an Argentinian Hospital is presented, evidencing a solid experience mainly in the follow-up of
the most frequent SD, especially those belonging the FGFR3 group and OI. In Chile, a
group with 20 years of experience presents its work with geneticists and pediatricians, focusing on diagnostic purposes and clinical management. Altogether, although
SD health-care and research activities in Latin America are in their early stages, the
experience in these three countries seems promising and stimulating for the region as
a whole.
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Keywords
Achondroplasia, Dysostosis, Latin America, Osteogenesis imperfecta, Skeletal dysplasias, Telemedicine