Atypical sex chromosome patterns Flashcards
What is an atypical sex chromosome pattern?
Any sex chromosome pattern that deviates from the usual XX/XY formation and which tends to be associated with a distinct pattern of physical and psychological symptoms.
How many males does Klinefelter’s syndrome affect?
1 in 600 males.
What is the chromosome pattern for Klinefelter’s syndrome?
XXY
What % of people with Klinefelter’s are identified by a prenatal diagnosis?
10%
How many people have Klinefelter’s and are not aware of it?
two-thirds of people.
How is Klinefelter’s often diagnosed?
Accidentally via a medical examination for some unrelated condition.
What are the physical characteristics of Klinefelter’s?
-reduced body hair.
-some breast development at puberty (gynaecomastia)
-long, gangly limbs.
-Problems with coordination and general clumsiness.
What are XXY men more susceptible to which XY may not be?
They are susceptible to health problems that are usually more commonly found in females such as breast cancer.
What are the psychological characteristics of Klinefelter’s?
-Poorly developed language skills and reading ability.
-Tend to be passive, shy and lack interest in sexual activity.
-Problems with memory and problem-solving.
How many women does Turner’s syndrome affect?
1 in 5000 biological females.
What is Turner’s caused by?
An absence of one of the two allocated X chromosomes.
What’s the chromosomal pattern for Turner’s syndrome?
XO
In regards to chromosomes how are women with Turner’s different from normal?
They have 45 chromosomes instead of 46.
What are the physical characteristics of Turner’s?
-They do not have a menstrual cycle (amenorrhoea), due to their ovaries not developing meaning they’re infertile.
-Broad ‘shield’ chest.
-Low set ears and a webbed neck.
-Physically immature and tend to retain the appearance of prepubescent girls.
What are the psychological characteristics of Turner’s?
-Higher than average reading ability.
-Poor spatial awareness, visual memory and maths tasks (lower than average).
-Socially immature (have trouble relating to their peers).
