Hand-foot-genital syndrome is also called hand-foot and uterus syndrome. It leads to the irregularity of the development of the feet, hand, and reproductive system together with the urinary tract in humans. The chances of developing this condition are extremely rare with only a handful of cases reported in the world. Women who are plagued with this ailment have early development and duplication of the uterus. When it comes to men, they have the urethra opening on the underside of their penis. Patients with hand-foot-genital symptoms are usually fertile. However, expecting women run the risk of delivering stillborn babies or failed pregnancy.
According to an article published on https://www.washingtonpost.com, pregnant ladies should count fetal kicks to prevent stillbirths. Read this article to learn more about this condition.
Causes of the Disease
Did you know that the mutation of the HOXA13 gene leads to this condition? It is hereditary, which implies that one flawed gene from a parent can result in the development of this ailment. A kid born of parents plagued with this condition has the possibility of developing the syndrome, and the chances are 50 percent. You can detect the condition through a prenatal test, especially if the affected parent has discovered the occurrence of the disease.
HOXA 13 Responsible for Protein Production
This gene is responsible for protein production in the body. Besides, it is also concerned with the development of the urinary tract, bones, as well as the reproductive system of the baby in the mother’s womb. The defective gene due to the hand-foot-genital syndrome mars the normal growth of these structures in the human body. Based on the mutation type, the gene in the body can produce the HOXA 13 protein that is beneficial or the non-functional protein doing no good to human health. The mutated functional HOXA 13 can result in some rigorous symptoms than the non-functional HOXA13.
Warning Signs
The indications or signs of the ailment may vary. Some of the symptoms include short fingers, thumbs. These body parts may bend inwards together with the unification or delayed bone inflexibility of the ankles and wrists. A patient may also develop short feet with big toes.
Patients may also face urinary tract and genital issues leading to regular urinary tract infection. A defect in the urethra or the uterus may lead to the abnormal flow of urine. Patients may not be able to control the flow. This condition is also known as urinary inconsistency. If you notice any of these symptoms, take medical assistance immediately. Delaying, hesitation or shyness may aggravate the condition. Therefore, be proactive in seeking medical help as soon as possible.
Treatment Options
You can diagnose the condition with radiographs of the feet, hand, male and female reproductive organs, and kidneys. The molecular genetic test should detect the condition and the flawed gene. No specific treatment is available, but in a few cases, the condition is managed through medication. The recurrent urinary tract or bladder infection may be treated with medicines.
Conclusion
Do not delay treatment if you notice the symptoms. At least, medicines will help in keeping a patient healthy to a certain extent.