Proteus syndrome: A disturbance of cell growth that causes overgrowth, asymmetry, and gigantism of bones, limbs, skin, and other organs. Its symptoms also include vascular malformations; raised, rough skin; and overgrowth of fat. John Merrick, the 19th-century Englishman known as the 'elephant man,' is thought to have had Proteus syndrome. No specific treatment is available.
Reviewed on 9/7/2018