Because Goldenhar syndrome includes a wide spectrum of physical features and symptoms, a number of names have arisen. Other names for this syndrome include Goldenhar Gorlin syndrome, the oculoauriculovertebral (OAV) spectrum, ocular-auriculo-vertebral anomaly, first and second branchial arch syndrome, facio-auriculo-vertebral (FAV) spectrum, and oculo-auriculo-vertebral dysplasia.
This is a rare, congenital form of dysplasia (abnormal growth) where the head and face do not develop normally before birth. Common characteristics include underdeveloped or missing ears and malformations of the jaw, mouth, palate, eyes, and vertebrae.