Fragile X Syndrome

Fragile X syndrome is the most common inherited type of mental retardation. It occurs in about 1 in 3600 males and 1 in 4000 females. Early diagnosis allows genetic counseling, therapy and testing of at risk relatives. The most common signs of Fragile X are mental retardation, learning disabilities, and developmental delay. An individual with Fra X may be hyperactive, show signs of autism such as poor eye contact, have rapid repetitive speech , hand biting and flapping, hypersensitivity to light or sound, and difficulty in adapting to changes. Physical signs are most noticeable in adults and include enlarged testes after puberty, large head and hands, long narrow face with prominent chin and forehead and large flat ears. Children may have few identifiable physical characteristics. Genetic and prenatal testing is available. Consult your doctor.