Definition of Hemihypertrophy

Hemihypertrophy: Asymmetric overgrowth (hypertrophy) of the skull, face, trunk, limbs, and/or digits, with or without visceral involvement. Hemihypertrophy may be an isolated finding in an otherwise normal individual, or it may appear as part of several syndromes, including the Wiedemann-Beckwith syndrome. Hemihypertrophy carries an increased risk of Wilms tumor (of the kidney), hepatoblastoma (liver cancer), and adrenal cancer. Other problems associated with hemihypertrophy include scoliosis and unequal leg length with walking difficulties.