Fragile X Syndrome
Alternate Names : Marker X Syndrome, Martin-Bell Syndrome
DefinitionFragile X syndrome is a genetic condition involving changes in the long arm of the X chromosome. It is characterized by mental retardation.
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Fragile X syndrome is the most common form of inherited mental retardation in males and a significant cause in females. The inheritance is different from common dominant or recessive inheritance patterns. A fragile area on the X chromosome tends to repeat bits of the genetic code. The more repeats, the more likely there is to be a problem. Boys and girls can both be affected, but because boys have only one X chromosome, a single fragile X is more likely to affect them more severely.
|
