Ectodermal dysplasia
Ectodermal dysplasias (ED) are a group of disorders in which two or more of the ectodermally derived structures — the skin, sweat glands, hair, nails, teeth and mucous membranes — develop abnormally. Each person with an ectodermal dysplasia may have a different combination of defects. For example, in one person the hair and nails may be affected, while in another the sweat glands and teeth are affected. Each combination is considered a distinct type of ED. The condition is present from birth but may not be detected until later in childhood. ED is caused by altered genes. It can be inherited within families who have the genetic defect, or it can occur in families without a history of the condition. ED cannot be cured, but the symptoms can be treated or managed.