Dysmorphology: an approach to a child with structural defects.

An approach to children with structural defects has been presented. The ultimate goal of this approach is a specific overall diagnosis. In such cases appropriate genetic counseling for the parents, accurate prognostication relative to the child's future development and an appropriate plan to help the child reach his potential usually are possible. When an overall diagnosis is lacking, the most that can be expected is a better understanding of the nature and onset of the problem. That in itself can often be helpful to patients and to all others dealing with children having structural defects.