Angel Shaped Phalangoepiphyseal Dysplasia

A form of acromelic dysplasia with the distinctive radiological sign of angel-shaped middle phalanges, a typical metacarpophalangeal pattern profile (mainly affecting first metacarpals and middle phalanges of second, third and fifth digits which all appear short), epiphyseal changes in the hips and in some, abnormal dentition and delayed bone age. A rare disease with less than 20 cases reported in the literature, however, it is likely under diagnosed. Caused by mutations in the growth differentiation factor 5 (GDF5) gene, located on chromosome 20q11.2, encoding CDMP1 (cartilage derived morphogenetic protein). CDMP1 belongs to the TGF beta super family and plays a role in bone growth and joint morphogenesis. Transmitted as an autosomal dominant condition.