Complete Information on Cri du Chat syndrome

Behavior modification programs may be successful in managing hyperactivity, short attention span, low threshold for frustration, and self-stimulatory behaviors.

Cri du Chat syndrome also called deletion 5p syndrome. It is a rare genetic disorder due to a missing portion of chromosome 5. This chromosome error occurs during fetal development and is not inherited. This condition affects an estimated 1 in 20,000 to 50,000 live births. In 80 percent of the cases, the chromosome carrying the deletion comes from the father's sperm.This condition is found in people of all ethnic backgrounds and is slightly more common in females The disorder is found in people of all ethnic backgrounds and is slightly more common in females by a 3-1 ratio.

 Most cases are believed occur during the development of an egg or sperm. Between 1 in 20,000 - 50,000 babies are affected this condition. This disease may account for up to 1% of individuals with severe mental retardation. The infant sounds just like a mewing kitten, due to problems with the larynx and nervous system. This cry identifies the syndrome. About 1/3 of children lose the cry by age 2. Other symptoms of cri-du-chat syndrome may include feeding problems because of difficulty swallowing and sucking , low birth weight and poor growth , severe cognitive, speech, and motor delays.Behavior problems such as hyperactivity, aggression, tantrums, and repetitive movements and unusual facial features which may change over time. There is no cure for CDC. Speech and physical therapy may be particularly useful for children with CDC. There are varying levels of cognitive impairment. Some children can learn to express themselves using short sentences, sign language, and/or gestures.

Genetic counseling and testing is recommended for all persons with a family history of this syndrome. Couples with a family history of this syndrome who wish to become pregnant may consider genetic counseling. Early intervention programs, using a variety of therapies and educational strategies, focus on enhancing physical, intellectual, sensory and social development and have been shown to greatly improve the future outlook for the child. Improving a child's ability to communicate by any means not only helps them to make their needs known, but also helps them to develop intellectually and socially, improving the quality of their lives immeasurably.

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