Turner Syndrome is a genetic disorder which only affects women. It is believed to occur in about 1 out of every 2000 births in the United States when girls are born. First discovered in 1938 by Dr. Henry Turner, it causes women to have shorter stature than usual and other physical characteristics, such as nails that curve upward, ears that are lower set, and extra skin around the neck. It is caused by a defect that is on the second X chromosome.
Here are some interesting facts about this chromosomal condition.
1. Hormone Treatments Are Required 100% Of The Time.
Because Turner Syndrome affects the hormonal balance of women who have it, puberty is not achieved in girls unless hormone treatments are initiated. This does not mean that there are changes to the girls physically, as they have all of the regular body parts any other woman would have. It just means that the hormones which would kick in for sexual maturity aren’t present.
2. It Can Cause Really Bad Middle Ear Infections.
Girls who have been diagnosed with Turner Syndrome are much more likely to get a middle ear infection. Once one infection sets in, it also becomes easier for subsequent infections to occur. Every subsequent ear infection increases the risk that permanent hearing loss may occur, so ENT specialists tend to be included automatically as part of the treatment team for girls with this syndrome.
3. High Blood Pressure is Common in Girls With Turner Syndrome.
There is not a known reason why blood pressure averages are much higher in women with Turner Syndrome than the general population. It is high enough that regular health maintenance visits are recommended when a diagnosis of Turner Syndrome has been confirmed to prevent the premature hardening of the circulatory system and other common high blood pressure related problems.
4. It Causes Infertility.
Although infertility is not 100% guaranteed with Turner System, almost all women who have this chromosomal disorder are infertile. Pregnancy is possible for these women if donor embryos are made available, but special clinics usually must be visited regularly for this and other health needs that women may have. Early treatment and preventative care is incredibly important with Turner Syndrome to manage symptoms.
5. Turner Syndrome May Be Just A Random Error.
The most common appearance of Turner Syndrome is a complete lack of a second X chromosome. Some women may have a partial second X chromosome, while a more rare instance of this syndrome involves having some cells with two complete X chromosomes and some cells only having one. Scientists know that it isn’t passed down genetically from a girl’s parents, however, so it is believed that this is just a random variation.
6. It May Be Presented With Heart Problems.
One of the ways that Turner Syndrome can be discovered is through a heart murmur in an infant after birth. This is caused by a narrow aorta and surgery is often necessary to correct the problem.