Runge's disease, characterized by features suggesting placental insufficiency in newborns, presents with a distinct set of symptoms. These include low weight, an alert demeanor despite their condition, and characteristic skin changes.
The symptoms of Runge's disease include:
- Low Weight: Affected newborns typically have a lower than expected weight for their gestational age.
- Alertness: Despite other symptoms, the baby may appear surprisingly alert.
- Absence of Vernix: The protective, waxy coating (vernix caseosa) usually present at birth is missing.
- Dry, Colloid-like, and Desquamating Skin: The skin appears dry, may have a colloid-like (gelatinous) appearance in areas, and exhibits desquamation (peeling). This peeling can be extensive.
- "Old Man's Face": This describes the wrinkled and aged appearance of the skin, particularly on the face, due to the dryness and desquamation.
- Yellow or Greenish Staining: The umbilical cord, nails, and sometimes all of the skin may be stained yellow or greenish.
- Respiratory Distress: Frequently, newborns with Runge's disease experience breathing difficulties.
The cause of Runge's disease is unknown but is often attributed to placental insufficiency, meaning the placenta was not providing adequate support to the developing fetus. This leads to intrauterine growth restriction and the characteristic skin changes observed at birth.
