Authors: Mekka Garcia, MD, NYU Grossman School of Medicine   

Alison L. Christy, MD, PhD, Providence Pediatric Neurology at St. Vincent Medical Center—Portland, Oregon

Reviewed: July 2022

SUMMARY

Klippel-Feil syndrome (KFS) is a rare bone disorder. It is characterized by abnormal fusion of the bones of the neck. The cause is largely unknown. However, it has been linked to genetic variations that affect the development of the bones of the neck.  

Clinical diagnosis is based on three features: 

• Decreased range of motion of the neck 
• Short, webbed neck 
• Low hairline at the back of the head

Some people might not have all three. There is no cure for KFS, but supportive care is available.

Disorder Overview

DESCRIPTION

Most cases of KFS are spontaneous. They are found incidentally on imaging. Cases of KFS can run within a family when there is a genetic abnormality. This abnormality occurs in either the GDF6 or the GDF3 genes. These genes are involved in the development of bones. 

KFS affects 1 in every 40,000 births. It is more common in females. Features of KFS are always present at birth. However, if they are mild, they may not be noticed for years.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Signs and symptoms are present at birth, though they may go unnoticed for years if they are mild. These may include: 

• Fusion of two or more of the bones in the neck 
• Short, webbed neck 
• Low hairline  
• Torticollis (neck turned to one side) 
• Other skeletal problems including: 
  • Scoliosis (curved spine) 
  • Raised scapula 
  • Rib deformities 

• Spina bifida (opening in the back with exposed spinal cord and nerves) 
• Deafness 
• Respiratory problems 
• Kidney or heart abnormalities 
• Pain  
• Headaches  

CAUSES

Familial cases of KFS can occur when there is an abnormality in either the GDF6 or the GDF3 genes. These genes are involved in the development of bones.

KFS can be inherited. This can occur in two different ways: 

• KFS can be an autosomal dominant disorder. This means that if either parent has one abnormal gene, there is a 50% chance that their children will inherit the disease.  
• KFS can be an autosomal recessive disorder. This means that a child with this disorder must inherit one abnormal gene from the mother and one abnormal gene from the father. 

If a child inherits one abnormal gene and one normal gene: 

• They will usually not have symptoms. 
• They will instead be called a “carrier” of the disorder. 

If both parents carry the abnormal gene: 

• The risk of a child having the disorder is 25%, or 1 in 4, with each pregnancy.

The cause of most cases of KFS is unknown. They occur spontaneously.  

LABORATORY INVESTIGATIONS

KFS can be diagnosed with a careful history. This includes family history and a complete physical exam. Tests that may help confirm the diagnosis include:

TREATMENT AND THERAPIES

There is no cure for KFS. Therefore, therapies are aimed at symptomatic and supportive care. 

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs are medications that can help with inflammation. They can treat joint and muscle pain. 
• Physical and occupational therapies 
• Back bracing and/or surgery. Surgical treatments may include:  
  • Repair of abnormally fused bones in the neck 
  • Scoliosis surgery 
  • Other surgical repairs of involved organs  

• Avoidance of activities that can injure the neck  
• Psychosocial support for families  

OUTLOOK

The life expectancy of people with KFS can be typical, especially if diagnosed early in life.

RELATED DISORDERS

Conditions with similar symptoms include: 

• Multiple synostosis 
• Ankylosing spondylitis 
• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis 
• Goldenhar syndrome 

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Research 

ClinicalTrials.gov for Klippel-Feil Syndrome (birth to 17 years).

These are clinical trials that are recruiting or will be recruiting. Updates are made daily, so you are encouraged to check back frequently. 

ClinicalTrials.gov is a database of privately and publicly funded clinical studies conducted around the world. This is a resource provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM), which is an institute within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Listing a study does not mean it has been evaluated by the U.S. Federal Government. Please read the NLM disclaimer for details.    

Before participating in a study, you are encouraged to talk to your health care provider and learn about the risks and potential benefits. 

The information in the CNF Child Neurology Disorder Directory is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice and should not be considered a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. Content provided is for informational purposes only.  CNF is not responsible for actions taken based on the information included on this webpage. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options. 

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