Apert Sydrome: Physical Traits

The Ears:
The external ears are usually normally shaped, but are positioned slightly lower than average. The inner ear may be affected in a number of ways. As a result of the mid-facial hypoplasia, the inner ear does not drain well, and children frequently develop otitis media, or ear infections. Most often, infants require placement of small tubes in the ear to prevent frequent infections and chronic internal scarring. In addition, the bones of the inner ear may be partially fused together, contributing to a "conductive" hearing loss. Many adults with Apert syndrome may have some degree of hearing loss, so careful attention to the ears is important in infancy and childhood.