Hemihypertrophy is a rare congenital condition that is found either as an isolated feature, or associated with one of a number of so called 'overgrowth syndromes'. Hemihypertrophy is an example of Hemi-asymmetry, where part or all of one half of the body is enlarged, affecting multiple tissues on a primary basis. It affects approximately 1 in 80000 - 90000 births.
Other very rare congenital overgrowth syndromes that have been reported to feature hemihypertrophy.
Hemihypertrophy is linked to a variety of benign and malignant disorders that usually appear during childhood, but can develop later in life. These disorders include cancer of the adrenal glands and liver.
Little is known, and little research is done.