Eagle-Barrett Syndrome

Abstract

Eponyms may at times have an unexpected value when they are used to designate syndromes or specific diseases. We would suggest, for example, that Eagle-Barrett¹ syndrome is a kinder and more appropriate designation than "prune belly syndrome."

Our experience tells us that the latter designation is disturbing to parents of children who have the problem. Unfortunately, these children are sometimes referred to as "prune bellies." The designation does lend itself at times to an unintended but nevertheless demeaning overtone.