r of cells covers the outside of the body. This layer of cells is known as the ectoderm. From this layer, skin, hair, nails, teeth nerve cells, sweat glands, parts of the eye, and parts of the ear are developed. Each of these things is then known as a ectodermal structure. There are many disorders that include one of these structures, and are not properly called ED. A combination of defects involving more than one of these structures, should be called ED. There are many different symptoms for ED and each combination of one or more symptoms are classified in its own category. The skin is lightly pigments and appears thin, and the surface of blood vessels may be visible. The skin around the eyes is wrinkled and the skin of the palms and soles of the feet may be thick. Some other symptoms for ED may include: Absence of sweat glandsMalformed finger/toe nailsMultiple missing teethSparse hair, eyelashes and browsCleft lip and palateDeficient tears and salivaFrequent respiratory infectionsHearing or sight defectsMissing fingers or toesPoorly functioning mucous membranesProblem with the immune systemOther abnormalities of the ectodermProminent foreheadFlat or depressed bridge of the noseAbsence of mammary glandsPeg teethFoul-smelling nasal dischargeHeat intoleranceMost individuals affected by ED cannot perspire. The sweat glands are absent, reduced in number, or may not function normally This complication causes high fevers which may, in the presence of illness, cause significant brain damage or death. The body isn’t able to regulate it’s temperature. Often the first clue that sweat glands are absent or are not functioning normally is an elevated temperature. Elevations in body temperature are often caused by high environmental temperatures, excessive activity, or heavy clothing. When the body temperature is elevated, the skin feels dry, hot and may be flushed or pale. Air conditioning in the home, school and work pla...
