Deformity - Definition and Overview

A Deformity is a major difference in the shape of the body or a body part compared to the average shape for the area in question.

Whether someone is deformed is, of course, a matter of personal judgement. We are all deformed in that we all differ from the average or 'normal' form of a human.

Deformity may arise from numerous causes, for instance:

• A genetic mutation
• Complications at birth
• A growth or hormone disorder
• Reconstructive surgery following a severe injury e.g. burn injury.
• Arthritis and other Rheumatoid disorders

Removing the stigma that often accompanies deformity is a challenge that modern society now faces, as all too often exterior appearances are used as judgement for the social worth of a person.

A fear of deformity is known as dysmorphophobia.

Irish Mythology includes the Fomorians, who are almost without exception described as being deformed, possessing only one of what most have two of (eyes, arms, legs, etc.) or having larger than normal limbs. Other mythological creatures may have been created due to a deformative syndrome also, for instance, mermaids may have been created due to the syndrome sirenomelus.

Example Usage of Deformity