What is the prognosis for Angelman syndrome?

Riverside Center for Neurosciences

Most individuals with Angelman syndrome will have severe developmental delays, speech limitations, and motor difficulties. However, individuals with this syndrome can have normal life spans and not show developmental regression as they age. Early diagnosis and tailored interventions and therapies can help improve quality of life.

This answer is based on source information from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

Continue Learning about Chromosomal Disorders

National Down Syndrome Society

A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward s...

National Down Syndrome Society

There are three types of Down syndrome: trisomy 21 (nondisjunction), translocation and mosaicism. ...

National Down Syndrome Society

Students with Down syndrome are included in typical academic classrooms in schools across the countr...

Deborah Raines, MSN

Chromosomal disorders are a result of an alteration in genetic material. These alterations can be gr...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Chromosomal Disorders

The human body has 23 pairs of chromosomes: 22 pairs of autosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes. This gives humans 46 chromosomes in total. Every chromosome contains hundreds to thousands of your genes. Genes provide instructions for building proteins that help bodies grow and function properly. Chromosomal genetic disorders occur when chromosomes are partially or completely missing, altered or duplicated. An example of a chromosomal genetic disorder is Down syndrome. Down syndrome is the result of an extra, third copy of chromosome 21 being present in a person. This extra chromosome results in extra protein production and upsets the body’s balanced systems. During pregnancy chromosomal abnormalities can cause the death of an embryo or fetus. Chromosomal disorders can result in mental retardation or other developmental problems. Older pregnant women have a higher risk of passing on chromosomal genetic disorders.

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