Cloves Syndrome

CLOVES syndrome is a rare condition that is primarily characterized by congenital overgrowth of fatty tissue; malformations of the vascular system (the vessels that carry blood and lymph throughout the body); epidermal nevi; and spinal or skeletal abnormalities. Other signs and symptoms may include disproportionate fat distribution, overgrowth of the extremities (arms and legs), skin abnormalities and kidney problems such as an unusually small or absent kidney. The severity of the condition and the associated signs and symptoms vary significantly from person to person. CLOVES syndrome is caused by somatic mutations in the PIK3CA gene. Because these mutations do not affect egg or sperm cells, the condition is not passed on from parent to child. Treatment is based on the signs and symptoms present in each person.