The normal newborn transmits a clear red colour back to the observer. Black dots may represent cataracts. A whitish color may be suggestive of retinoblastoma. Ears Check for asymmetry, irregular shapes. Look for auricular or pre-auricular pits, fleshy appendages, lipomas, or skin tags.
Nose Look for flaring of the alae nasi as a sign of increased respiratory effort.
A soft NG tube should be passed through each nostril to confirm patency if choanal atresia is suspected. Palate Check for cleft lip and palate. Mouth Observe the size and shape of the mouth. Microstomia - seen in Trisomy 18 and 21. Macrostomia - seen in mucopolysaccharidoses.