The face
The face
Low nasal bridge
Low nasal bridge

Low nasal bridge

Definition:
A flattening of the bridge of the nose.

Alternative Names:
Saddle nose

Considerations:

Decreased growth (hypoplasia) of the nasal bridge can occur in association with infectious or genetic diseases. A low or absent nasal bridge is a relative term. Decrease in height of the nasal bridge is best seen from a side view of the face. A low nasal bridge may be almost flush with the plane of the face, the eyes, or the forehead.

Common Causes:
Call your health care provider if:

You have questions about the shape of your child's nose.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The specific diagnosis of the cause of a low nasal bridge is based on a family history, medical history, and thorough physical evaluation.

Medical history questions documenting low nasal bridge in detail may include:

  • What other physical abnormalities are also present?

Diagnostic tests:
Laboratory studies such as chromosome studies, enzyme assays (blood tests to measure specific enzyme levels), X-rays, and metabolic studies may be ordered to confirm the presence of a suspected disorder.


Review Date: 5/21/2002
Reviewed By: Adam Ratner, M.D., Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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