Ectodermal dysplasia: A review and case report

Ectodermal dysplasia is a hereditary disease characterized by a congenital dysplasia of one or more ectodermal structures and their accessory appendages. Common manifestations include defective hair follicles and eyebrows, frontal bossing with prominent supraorbital ridges, nasal bridge depression, and protuberant lips. Intraorally, common findings are anodontia or hypodontia, conical teeth, and, consequently, generalized spacing. The patient may suffer from dry skin, hyperthermia, and unexplained high fever as a result of the deficiency of sweat glands. The present review focuses on the clinical manifestations, classifications, and diagnosis of ectodermal dysplasia. A 6-year-old girl, described in the case report, exhibited many of the manifestations of ectodermal dysplasia as well as behavioral problems and a severe gag reflex. The treatment to improve her appearance and oral function included a removable prosthesis, acid-etch-retained indirect resin composite veneers, and a fixed partial denture.