Glossary term
Achondroplasia
The most common form of skeletal dysplasia (short-limbed dwarfism), caused by a genetic mutation affecting bone growth.
Updated 2026-03-010 aliases3 sourcesUsed across articles and safety pages
Definition
The most common form of skeletal dysplasia, caused by a mutation in the FGFR3 gene that affects cartilage-to-bone conversion at the growth plates. Limb lengthening is sometimes performed in individuals with achondroplasia to improve function and proportionality.
Updated 2026-03-01
Sources
- Vogt B, Laufer A, Gosheger G, et al. Evaluation of simultaneous bilateral femoral distraction osteogenesis with antegrade intramedullary lengthening nails in achondroplasia. Acta Orthop. 2024;95:63-70.other_publicAccessed 2026-03-01
- Erverdi N, Motro M. Brief History of Distraction Osteogenesis. Springer, 2015.other_publicAccessed 2026-02-19
- Ilizarov GA. The tension-stress effect on the genesis and growth of tissues: Part II. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 1989;239:263-285. PMID: 2912628other_publicAccessed 2026-02-19
Informational only. Not medical advice.