Triple X Syndrom

Triple X syndrome, also known by alternative names such as Trisomy X or Triplo X, is a disorder within chromosomes. Our bodies are composed of millions of cells and each cell contains 46 chromosomes inside of its nuclei, which acts as the "brain" for the individual cell. Of these chromosomes there are typically 2 sex chromosomes, if you are female you will have two X chromosomes, and if you are male you will have one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. When someone is diagnosed as having Triple X syndrome they have three X chromosomes, thus making it a disorder which effects females only.

Triple X syndrome is caused during the formation of reproductive cells (eggs and sperm) in one of the parents which is then passed down to their daughter. Research has discovered little about this disorder. Many girls and women who have the disorder may have no signs or symptoms. Symptoms that may be expressed include and may vary from, increased spacing between eyes, tall stature, a small head, delayed speech and language, delayed motor skills, seizures, delayed puberty, infertility, and rarely mental retardation. There is no cure for this disorder, and it is recommended to seek specialists in individual fields where the problem occurs, for example, see a speech and language pathologist if a delay in that area.

Triple X is not a common disorder and will occur in 1 in every 1,000 to 3,000 newborn girls; this equals out to be about five girls born each day in the United States with this disorder. The numbers vary due to the fact that sometimes no symptoms are present and this disorder is not diagnosed until later in a woman's life. It is a disorder that is inherited from generation to generation, thus those diagnosed with Triple X will not necessarily have children with the same disorder.

If a pregnant woman is concerned that her child may suffer from this disorder it can be diagnosed during pregnancy with amniocentesis and CVS which allows for genetic testing before birth. This can also be diagnosed by a pediatrician or doctor after birth by performing a karyotype which is analysis of the chromosomes. It is best for parents with children with this disorder to be informed of all possible learning disabilities and be an excellent support system for your child allowing them to exceed to their fullest potential.

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