What is Turner's syndrome ?

Turner's syndrome is a chromosomal condition causing short stature and infertility in women and girls.

What causes Turner's syndrome ?

Turner's syndrome is caused by the complete or partial absence of one of the two x sex chromosomes normally found in women.

Are there other problems associated with having Turner's syndrome ?

Yes. Heart problems, kidney problems or thyroid problems are the most frequent health problems. However these are usually not too serious. They do require good, consistent medical care and management by a qualified sub-specialist. Also, not everyone has every problem associated with this condition.

Does a mother do anything to make a daughter have Turner's syndrome ?

No. Turner's syndrome is not associated with any environmental or other factor such as drinking, smoking, age or anything else. It appears to be a random event that can happen to anyone.

How often does Turner's syndrome occur ?

Best estimates put the frequency of Turner's syndrome at 1 in 2,500 or 1 in 2,000 liveborn females. There is no known difference in frequency based upon race, location or socio-economic factors.

What can be done ?

As a chromosomal condition, there is no "cure" for Turner's syndrome as antibiotics can cure a strep throat. However much can be done; growth hormone, either alone or with a weak androgen, will improve growth velocity and probably final adult height. Estrogen replacement therapy has been used since the condition was described in 1938 to promote development of secondary sexual characteristics. They are also important for maintaining good tissue and bone integrity. Modern reproductive technologies have also been used to help women with Turner's syndrome become pregnant should they so desire.

What is the life expectancy of a woman with Turner syndrome?

There is not much information on this question. However, all things being equal, there is no reason why a woman with Turner's syndrome should not lead a full, productive life. It is important though, to have competent medical care regularly.

Are Turner's syndrome women mentally retarded ?

NO !! There is no connection between Turner's syndrome and mental retardation. There may be some differences in learning style that make math or spatial problems a bit more difficult. However with determination and patience these problems can usually be surmounted or compensated for. As with anything else, positive reinforcement and encouragement enable Turner's syndrome women to lead productive, successful lives in the career path of their choice.

Will my daughter have feeding problems during the first year or two?

Possibly. Research has shown that feeding problems can occur and some children experience "failure to thrive." Some babies with Turner's have a high pallette in the mouth, making it difficult to develop the proper sucking technique. Sometimes a bottle with a special nipple can help. Projectile vomiting can be a problem. (Reference a book called "Turner's Across the Lifespan" published after the third International Turner's Syndrome Conference)

What types of jobs can my daughter do?

This is as individual as each person. Most women with Turner's can be successful at any job which interests them and for which they have trained! Women with Turner's have jobs as varied as any other group of people. As examples, women with Turner's have become social workers, lawyers, secretaries and accountants.

What about driving?

Some Turner's women do have slight difficulty with spatial relationships which may make it more challenging to learn to drive. Practice and a patient "teacher" are the best helps. Make sure that the new driver can adjust the seat and mirrors to a comfortable position.

Is short stature an issue?

Short stature can be an issue which leads to low self-esteem for women with Turner's. This may be most common during the teen age years, especially if teasing is encountered. Awareness of this issue and appropriate parental support/encouragement can help in developing self-confidence and an ability to cope with any teasing.

Should I tell my child's teacher that my daughter has Turner's?

This depends on the situation. If the child needs special assistance, then by all means ask for the necessary help. It is sometimes suggested that math can be more difficult for women with Turner's. If difficulty is encountered in a particular subject, tutoring is an option.

Where can I get more information ?

The Turner's Syndrome Society of the United States has more complete information. You can contact them at: 1313 Southeast 5th Street, Suite 327, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55414 USA, Tel: (800) 365-9944 E-mail: Tesch005@tc.umn.edu

MORE INFORMATION ON TURNER'S SYNDROME

Return to Karyotype Index Page