User:Mr. Ibrahem/Cri du chat syndrome

Cri du chat syndrome is a genetic disorder due to a partial deletion of genetic material on chromosome 5. Symptoms often include a high pitched cry, small head, and specific facial features. Complications may include trouble breathing, trouble feeding, behavioral problems, and intellectual disability.

The cause is unknown. The loss of genetic material that results in this syndrome generally occurs during early development. In about a 10th of cases it is inherited from an unaffected parent. Diagnosis is suspected based on symptoms and confirmed by genetic testing.

Treatment is directed at the symptoms. This may include special education, physical therapy, and speech therapy. Some individuals learn short sentence while others express themselves with gestures. Generally they are happy and friendly. Most of those affected have a normal life expectancy.

The condition affects an estimated 1 in 15,000 to 1 in 50,000 babies. It affects females more often than males. It was first described by Jérôme Lejeune in 1963. Its name is the French term for "cat-cry".