Definition

Broad nasal bridge is a widening of the top part of the nose.

Considerations

Broad nasal bridge can be a normal facial feature. However, it can also be associated with certain genetic or congenital (present from birth) disorders.

Causes

Causes may include:

• Basal cell nevus syndrome
• Fetal hydantoin effect (mother took the drug hydantoin during pregnancy)
• Normal facial feature
• Other congenital syndromes

Home Care

There is no need to treat broad nasal bridge. Other conditions that have broad nasal bridge as a symptom may need medical attention.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if:

• You feel that the shape of your child's nose is interfering with breathing
• You have questions about your child's nose

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

The provider will perform a physical exam. Provider may also ask questions about the person's family and medical history.

References

Chambers C, Friedman JM. Teratogenesis and environmental exposure. In: Lockwood CJ, Copel JA, Dugoff L, et al, eds. Creasy and Resnik's Maternal-Fetal Medicine: Principles and Practice. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 31.

Haddad J, Dodhia SN. Congenital disorders of the nose. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 404.

Slavotinek AM. Dysmorphology. In: Kliegman RM, St. Geme JW, Blum NJ, Shah SS, Tasker RC, Wilson KM, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 21st ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 128.