You are in Medical Library . An inherited disorder of bone growth that causes the most common type of dwarfism . Achondroplasia is an inherited disorder of bone growth. It is one of the group of disorders that are collectively called chondrodystrophies. Achondroplasia is the most common type of dwarfism.
Achondroplasia is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait.
A family history of achondroplasia should alert parents to the possibility of having an affected child. Typical appearance of achondroplastic dwarfism is apparent at birth. There is no specific treatment for achondroplasia. Associated orthopedic abnormalities such as club feet should be corrected. People with achondroplasia seldom reach five feet in height.