Overview
Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome (also known as TODV syndrome or Alves syndrome) is an extremely rare genetic condition that affects multiple body systems. The name describes the main areas involved: 'tricho' refers to hair abnormalities, 'oculo' refers to eye problems, 'dermo' refers to skin findings, and 'vertebral' refers to spine or bone abnormalities. Note that this condition has been classified as 'obsolete' in some medical databases, meaning it may have been reclassified or merged with another diagnosis as medical understanding has advanced. Patients with this syndrome may be born with sparse or abnormal hair, eye abnormalities (such as small eyes or other structural eye problems), skin findings (including abnormal patches or unusual skin texture), and vertebral or spinal defects. Some patients may also have facial differences and other developmental features. Because so few cases have been reported in the medical literature, the full range of symptoms and their severity is not completely understood. There is currently no cure for this condition. Treatment focuses on managing individual symptoms. This may include eye care from an ophthalmologist, orthopedic management for spinal issues, dermatological care for skin problems, and supportive therapies as needed. Because the condition is so rare, care is typically coordinated by a clinical geneticist who can help guide the involvement of multiple specialists.
Also known as:
Key symptoms:
Sparse or abnormal hairSmall or abnormally shaped eyesVision problemsSkin abnormalities or unusual skin patchesSpine or vertebral defectsFacial differencesShort statureAbnormal eyelashes or eyebrowsSkeletal abnormalitiesPossible hearing difficulties
Autosomal recessive
Passed on when both parents carry the same gene change; often skips generations
Neonatal
Begins at or shortly after birth (first 4 weeks)
Treatments
No FDA-approved treatments are currently listed for OBSOLETE: Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome.
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Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for OBSOLETE: Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to OBSOLETE: Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome.
Community
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Caregiver Resources
NORD Caregiver Resources
Support, advocacy, and financial assistance for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Mental Health Support
Rare disease caregiving can be isolating. Connect with counseling and peer support.
Family & Caregiver Grants
Financial assistance programs specifically for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.What specific features of this syndrome does my child have, and how severe are they?,How often should we schedule eye exams and spine check-ups?,Are there any genetic tests that could help confirm the diagnosis or identify the cause?,What therapies or interventions are recommended for the spinal abnormalities?,Should we consider genetic counseling for future family planning?,Are there any other conditions we should rule out that look similar to this syndrome?,What resources or support groups are available for families affected by this condition?
Common questions about OBSOLETE: Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome
What is OBSOLETE: Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome?
Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome (also known as TODV syndrome or Alves syndrome) is an extremely rare genetic condition that affects multiple body systems. The name describes the main areas involved: 'tricho' refers to hair abnormalities, 'oculo' refers to eye problems, 'dermo' refers to skin findings, and 'vertebral' refers to spine or bone abnormalities. Note that this condition has been classified as 'obsolete' in some medical databases, meaning it may have been reclassified or merged with another diagnosis as medical understanding has advanced. Patients with this syndrome may be born
How is OBSOLETE: Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome inherited?
OBSOLETE: Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome follows a autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.
At what age does OBSOLETE: Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome typically begin?
Typical onset of OBSOLETE: Tricho-oculo-dermo-vertebral syndrome is neonatal. Age of onset can vary across affected individuals.