How to Identify Klinefelter Syndrome

Klinefelter syndrome is a chromosomal condition which only affects males. It occurs when a male fetus has an extra X chromosome at birth. The combination of 2 chromosomes, X & Y, determines what the sex of the child will be. Females are characterized by an XX chromosome combination and a male is XY. In Klinefelter syndrome a male child has an extra chromosome and the combination is XXY.Although appearing normal at birth, a boy with this condition will start to show symptoms around mid-puberty when the sex hormones increase. Because of the extra X or female chromosome a boy with Klinefelter will have lower testosterone during puberty and this will make certain symptoms more noticeable.Here are some ways to identify if a boy has Klinefelter syndrome.

Instructions

1. During mid-puberty it might be noticeable that a young boy has smaller than normal testicles. This may be noticed during a routine checkup. This symptom usually results in reduced sperm meaning that a male with this condition will be infertile.

2. There will be noticeably less facial, pubic and body hair because of less testosterone being produced in the boys body.

3. Being tall and lanky is another symptom in young boys. The boy may have long legs, more narrow shoulders and wider hips than most boys his age.

4. Appearing clumsy and having underdeveloped muscles occurs also. A boy with this might not have a lot of upper body strength.

5. Having enlarged breasts is common, there again because of the decrease of testosterone in the body. Some boys may choose later on to have breast reduction surgery if it becomes too noticeable.

6. Having learning disabilities may occur. Delayed speech and poor verbal skills might be discovered during school, as well as poor critical thinking skills and problem solving. Approximately 50% of males with Klinefelter syndrome are dyslexic.

Tips & Warnings

• The two most common symptoms of this condition that result in a diagnosis later in life is the enlarged breasts and infertility.