The distal limb deficiencies-micrognathia syndrome is characterized by the combination of symmetric severe distal limb reduction deficiencies affecting all four limbs (oligodactyly), microretrognathia, and microstomia with or without cleft palate.

Cleft palate is a developmental defect of the palate resulting from a failure of fusion of the palatine processes and manifesting as a separation of the roof of the mouth (soft and hard palate).