CranFlow: An Application for Record-Taking and Management Through the Brazilian Database on Craniofacial Anomalies

Background The World Health Organization has recognized the relevance of databases on craniofacial anomalies since 2002. To date, there is no universal standard instrument/database focused on risk factors, clinical and genetic data collection, and follow-up that enables comparison between different populations and genotype–phenotype correlation. Although studies have shown that specific genes would impact outcomes, knowledge is not sufficient to subsidize cost-effectiveness strategies for diagnosis, surgical decision, and a multi-professional approach toward personalized medicine. Methods Based on a clinical genetic approach, a Web-based application named CranFlow—Craniofacial Anomalies: Registration, Flow, and Management has been developed. It prospectively collects clinical and genetic information for the Brazilian Database on Craniofacial Anomalies (syndromic and nonsyndromic orofacial cleft, 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, and other craniofacial related disorders). A comprehensive list of CranFlow's features is provided. Results We present preliminary results on 1546 cases already recorded and followed, which allows recognizing 10% of diagnosis changes. Conclusion The identification of risk factors, consistent genetic approach associated with clinical data and follow-up result in valuable information to develop and improve personalized treatment and studies on genotype–phenotype correlation. Adoption of CranFlow in different clinical services may support comparison between populations. This application has the potential to contribute to improvements in healthcare, quality of services, clinical and surgical outcomes, and the standard of living of individuals with craniofacial anomalies. Birth Defects Research, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.