How Our NFED Family Came To Be

What was it like to be diagnosed with ectodermal dysplasia in the early 1980s? NFED founder, Mary Kaye Richter, looks back at the Foundation’s humble beginnings, its first decade of accomplishments and the extraordinary people and circumstances that fueled its success.

Awareness. Advocacy. Action.

February is upon us, and the National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED) has a lot going on! In honor of Ectodermal Dysplasias Awareness Month (EDAM), please help us spread the word about these rare conditions and join us in raising up this incredible community through research, advocacy and more.

Why Genetic Testing is Critical in HED

If you or someone you love is affected by hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED), a doctor or dentist may have made the clinical diagnosis based on symptoms. Or, maybe HED runs in your family and you “just know” that you or your child have it. So, why would you want to get genetic testing to confirm the diagnosis? There are many benefits. But, most importantly because the first treatment for the X-linked recessive type of HED is being studied in a clinical trial.

The Dickie Family’s Full Circle Moments with Ectodermal Dysplasia

John Dickie IV was a young adult when he attended his first NFED Family Conference in 1987. His eyes were opened when he saw older guys affected by ectodermal dysplasia who had families and careers. Their lasting impression made him and his family want to give back to the NFED family, too. Read about the Dickies’ ectodermal dysplasia journey, their love for the NFED, John’s adventures and the advice he has for parents.

Let’s Celebrate 40 Years of NFED Success!

The National Foundation for Ectodermal Dysplasias (NFED) turned 40 years old on December 24, 2021. Normally, we would have recognized this milestone throughout last year. But, the pandemic caused us to shift our plans. Find out what we all have planned for this celebration year!

XLHED Clinical Trial of a Prenatal Treatment Begins

The EspeRare Foundation and Pierre Fabre Group announced that EDELIFE, the clinical study of a treatment for XLHED, has begun! Learn more about the ER-004 treatment and if you are eligible to participate in the trial.

Where Can You Turn When You Need Support? The NFED Of Course!

At 18 months old, Asher wasn’t showing signs of teeth development. Dental x-rays confirm that he has two upper teeth that have not ruptured, and those tooth buds are conical in shape. He has no other tooth buds present. This otherwise happy and healthy little blonde boy also has sparse hair, eczema flare ups, and he can’t produce sweat from his neck up. All classical signs of hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (HED).

XLHED Clinical Trial One Step Closer to Launching

Today, we received fantastic news for x-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia! EspeRare and Pierre Fabre announced that the ER-004 clinical trial is posted on ClinicalTrials.gov. Find out what that means and how it impacts our XLHED families.