Saddle nose

Alternative names

Low nasal bridge

Definition

A low nasal bridge describes a flattening of the bridge of the nose.

Considerations

Decreased growth (hypoplasia) of the nasal bridge can occur in association with infectious or genetic diseases. A low or absent nasal bridge is a relative term. Decrease in height of the nasal bridge is best seen from a side view of the face. A low nasal bridge may be almost flush with the plane of the face, the eyes, or the forehead.

Common Causes

• normal variant
  

• Williams syndrome
  
• other congenital syndromes
  

Call your health care provider if

You have questions about the shape of your child's nose.

What to expect at your health care provider's office

The specific diagnosis of the cause of a low nasal bridge is based on a family history, medical history, and thorough physical evaluation.

Medical history questions documenting low nasal bridge in detail may include:

• What other physical abnormalities are also present?
  

Diagnostic tests:
Laboratory studies such as chromosome studies, enzyme assays (blood tests to measure specific enzyme levels), X-rays, and metabolic studies may be ordered to confirm the presence of a suspected disorder.