Definition

Roberts SC phocomelia is a rare genetic condition that causes severe abnormalities in arm and leg bones. Other abnormalities, such as mental retardation, may also be present.

Description

Roberts SC phocomelia was first described in the year 1919. In the past, Roberts SC phocomelia syndrome was described as two separate syndromes: Roberts syndrome, and SC or pseudo-thalidomide syndrome. More recent examination, however, indicated that they are the same disorder. The term "pseudo-thalidomide" was originally used to describe individuals with limb shortening, as the medication thalidomide is known to cause limb abnormalities in the babies of women taking it during pregnancy.

Phocomelia is a condition in which the hands and feet are present, but the arms and legs are absent. The...