Klinefelter syndrome
By: Dominic Jones
Disorder issues
Klinefelter syndrome is a genetic condition that results when a boy is born with an extra copy of the X chromosome. Klinefelter syndrome is a common genetic condition affecting males. Klinefelter syndrome adversely affects testicular growth, and this can result in smaller than normal testicles. This can lead to lower production of the sex hormone testosterone.
Chromosomes
symptoms
Many men who have Klinefelter syndrome do not have obvious symptoms. Others have sparse body hair, enlarged breasts , and wide hips. In almost all men the testicles remain small. In some men the penis does not reach adult size. Their voices may not be as deep. They usually cannot father children. But they can have a normal sex life.
Some boys with Klinefelter syndrome have language and learning problems.(U.S National Library of Medicine)
Comparison
Affected individuals typically have small testes that do not produce as much testosterone as usual. Testosterone is the hormone that directs male sexual development before birth and during puberty. A shortage of testosterone can lead to delayed or incomplete puberty, breast enlargement gynecomastia, reduced facial and body hair, and an inability to have biological children infertility. (Green Alice)
Interesting facts
Children with Klinefelter syndrome may have learning disabilities and delayed speech and language development issues. They tend to be quiet, sensitive, and unassertive, but personality characteristics vary among affected individuals.
Works Cited
© 2016 The New York Times Company. "Health Guide." Health Guide. N.p., 6 July 2016. Web. 9 Jan. 2016.
Green, Alice. "Klinefelter Syndrome Information." Klinefelter Syndrome Information. N.p., 15 Dec. 2007. Web. 15 Apr. 2016.
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/klinefelter-syndrome/basics/definition/CON-20033637. CON-20033637HomeDiseases and Conditions Klinefelter Syndrome, 4 Nov. 1998. Web. 8 May 1998-2016.
U.S. National Library of Medicine. "Klinefelter's Syndrome: MedlinePlus." U.S National Library of Medicine. U.S. National Library of Medicine, 9 Feb. 2016. Web. 12 Apr. 2016.
William, David. "Klinefelter Syndrome - Genetics Home Reference." Genetics Home Reference - Your Guide to Understanding Genetic Conditions. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Apr. 2016.