- A dictionary of medical eponyms

Poland's symptom complex

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A unique pattern of one-sided malformations that are present at birth. Characterized by a defect of the chest (pectoralis) muscle on one side of the body and webbing of the fingers (cutaneous syndactyly) of the hand on the same side (ipsilateral hand). More common in males than in females. In females the breast may be absent on one side. Familial aggregation has been reported but no clear pattern of Mendelian inheritance has been discerned. Some authors have suggested the possibility of autosomal dominant inheritance. The condition is extremely rare. Poland's description was based upon a deceased convict named George Elt, whom he dissected at Guy's Hospital.

Bibliography

  • A. Poland:
    Deficiency of the pectoral muscles. Guy’s Hospital Reports, London, 1841, 6: 191.

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