An 86-year-old man presented to the dermatology clinic for a routine full-body skin examination and was noted to have an absent right pectoralis major muscle (Panel A) and brachydactyly of the right hand (Panel B). The patient reported that these findings had been present since birth. He noted no diminished strength or decreased range of motion. A clinical diagnosis of the Poland syndrome was made. The Poland syndrome is a rare congenital condition that is characterized by the unilateral absence or underdevelopment of chest-wall muscles and by limb abnormalities, including syndactyly or brachydactyly, on the affected side. Affected persons may have malformations of the underlying rib cage, long bones, breasts, or kidneys, and axillary hair may be absent. Although the cause of the Poland syndrome is unknown, it has been suggested that a disruption in blood supply to the embryonic tissues that give rise to the chest wall and hand may play a role. In some patients, plastic surgery may be performed to rebuild the chest wall or to construct a breast, and physical therapy may be beneficial in improving restricted mobility. In this patient, the findings that led to the diagnosis of the Poland syndrome did not warrant further evaluation or follow-up.
And the patient was diagnosed with this syndrome at the age of 86?๐
Why is this called Poland Syndrome? Great content though ๐