Information on Klinefelter Syndrome

Klinefelter syndrome is a inherited disorder that affects men’s. Klinefelter syndrome arises when a boy is born with one or more additional X chromosomes. Most males have one Y and one X chromosome. Having extra X chromosomes can cause a male to have some physical traits unusual for males. Klinefelter Syndrome occurs in 1 in 500 to 1 in 1000 live births. They are often tall and usually doing not grow secondary sex characteristics such as facial hair, or underarm and pubic hair. The syndrome can affect dissimilar stages of physical, language and social development.

Many male with Klinefelter syndrome do not have clear symptoms. The most common symptom is sterility. Others have sparse body hair, enlarged breasts, and broad hips. In almost all men the testicles remain small. In some men the penis does not reach adult size. Their voice may not be as deep. They usually cannot father children, but they can have a normal sex life. Some boys with Klinefelter syndrome have language and learning problems. Behaviorally, boys with Klinefelter syndrome tend to be shy and placid with low self confidence. There is no cure for Klinefelter syndrome.

Treatment aims to right several of the abnormalities and provide emotional support. Androgen therapy is the most important part of treatment. Testosterone replacement should start at puberty, around age 12 years. Testosterone treatment is important to decrease the incidence of cardiovascular illness and osteoporosis, as well as to increase libido. Parents can help XXY boys develop the ability to express themselves through solicited dialogue engaging them in conversation through a series of questions. Teachers can also assist by using certain methods in the classroom, such as breaking bigger tasks into small steps.

Physical therapy should be recommended in boys with hypotonia or delayed gross motor skills that may influence muscle tone, balance, and coordination. Occupational therapy is advised in boys with motor dyspraxia. A variety of therapists, such as ccupational, behavioral, mental health, and family therapists, can often help reduce or eliminate some of the symptoms of the XXY condition, such as poor muscle tone, speech or language problems, or low self-confidence. In children, early speech and language therapy is particularly supportive in developing skills in the understanding and production of more complex language.