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Cri du chat syndrome

Alternative Names

Chromosome 5p deletion syndrome; 5p minus syndrome; Cat cry syndrome

Treatment

No specific treatment is available for this syndrome. The mental retardation must be addressed, and counseling is recommended for the parents.

Parents of a child with this syndrome should have genetic counseling and a karyotype test to determine if one parent has a rearrangement of chromosome 5.

Support Groups

5p- Society -- www.fivepminus.org

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outcome varies but mental retardation is usual. Half of those children affected learn sufficient verbal skills to communicate. The cat-like cry becomes less apparent over time.

Possible Complications

Complications depend on the extent of mental retardation and physical abnormalities. Complications may include:

  • Inability to care for self
  • Inability to function in society

When to Contact a Medical Professional

This is a diagnosis that is generally made in the hospital at birth. Your health care provider will discuss the findings with you. On discharge, it's important to maintain regular contact with your health care provider and other caregivers. Genetic counseling and testing is recommended for all persons with a family history of this syndrome.

Review Date: 7/1/2007
Reviewed By: Brian Kirmse, MD, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Department of HumanGenetics, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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