Patterson syndrome

Patterson syndrome, also called pseudoleprechaunism, is an extremely rare syndrome, first mistaken as Donohue Syndrome (also known as Leprechaunism). It was described by Patterson and Watkins in 1962.

Patterson syndrome is characterized by the patient's having an unusual facial look, similar to that caused by Leprechaunism. It primarily affects the connective tissue and the neuroendocrine system, giving rise to bronzed hyperpigmentation, cutis laxa of the hands and feet, bodily disproportion, severe mental retardation, and major bony deformities. Radiographs reveal a characteristic generalised skeletal dysplasia.

It comprises endocrine abnormality, hyperadrenocorticism, cushingoid features, and diabetes mellitus. One other case has shown premature adrenarche.

The pathogenesis and etiology of the Patterson syndrome was unknown as of 1981.