What is XYY Syndrome?

Causes of XYY syndrome

XYY syndrome is caused due to a random error in the cell division. Nondisjunction is the term given to the missegregation of chromosomes due to the error in cell division. The extra Y chromosome occurs from nondisjunction during cell division of sperm cells either before conception or during early embryo development.

Symptoms of XYY Syndrome

Some patients may show no symptoms, while others may develop mild symptoms. Below given are some of the common signs and symptoms of XYY syndrome:

• Underweight
• Poor muscle tone
• Delay in reaching all the milestones
• Delayed in development of speech and language skills
• Widely spaced eyes
• Learning disability
• Lower IQ than normal
• Severe acne
• Behavioral problems like high temper, hyperactive etc.
• Involuntary muscle movement
• Taller than average height

Diagnosis of XYY Syndrome

Generally, this rare genetic disorder is never diagnosed because one may experience a few or no problematic symptoms. Usually, men with XYY syndrome have normal sexual development and fertility. But in some cases, they may have decreased sperm count with immature sperm cells. Such men are still fertile but may have issues in impregnating their partner. In such cases, a doctor may suggest a chromosome analysis to check for XYY syndrome.

This condition can be diagnosed during the prenatal stage through amniocentesis or chronic villus sampling.

Treatment of XYY Syndrome

The treatment strategies used depends upon the symptoms developed by this condition. Below given are some of them:

• Speech therapy
• Education support services
• Early intervention services
• Physical therapy
• Counseling
• Regular doctor visits

It is better to consult a doctor if you think you or your child might have this condition.