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.

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

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, descriptions of mermaids may be related to the symptoms of sirenomelus.

Deformity can occur in non-humans, as well. Frogs can be mutated due to trematoda.

See also

• Teratology

Human appearance

Deformität