Triple X syndrome is a relatively common genetic disorder that occurs in about 1 of every 1,000 female births. Normally, girls are born with two X chromosomes -- one from their mother, and one from their father. A girl born with Triple X syndrome has three X chromosomes.
What Causes Triple X Syndrome?
Triple X syndrome is a genetic disorder, but it usually isn't inherited. Instead, it occurs due to a random error in the genetic code. This error can occur before or after conception.
Is It Possible to Diagnose Triple X Syndrome During Pregnancy?
Many women and girls with triple X syndrome have no visible symptoms and remain undiagnosed their entire lives.
If you're worried that your baby is at risk of inheriting triple X syndrome, consider taking a noninvasive prenatal test (NIPT). NIPT analyzes a blood sample taken during pregnancy. It evaluates the genetic information in your blood that comes from a growing baby's placenta.
If NIPT determines that your baby is at risk, your OB/GYN or general practitioner can refer you to a genetic counselor who can help you better understand the condition.
Are There Different Types Of Triple X Syndrome?
There are two types of Triple X syndrome. The type depends on when the genetic variation occurred.
Nondisjunction
Nondisjunction accounts for the majority cases of Triple X syndrome. Nondisjunction is a result of a mother's egg cell or a father's sperm cell dividing incorrectly. A child born with nondisjunction has an extra X chromosome in all of the cells throughout their body.
Mosaic
Mosaic triple X syndrome occurs when an incorrect cell division takes place in the early stages of an embryo's formation. A child with mosaic triple X syndrome only has an extra X chromosome in certain cells throughout their body. Females with the mosaic version of triple X usually have fewer symptoms.
What Are The Symptoms Of Triple X Syndrome?
The symptoms of triple X syndrome vary from person to person. Some girls experience mild symptoms or none at all. Others experience intellectual disabilities, behavioral problems, and physical deformities.
Telltale signs of triple X syndrome include:
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Widely spaced eyes
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Flat feet
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Seizures
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Kidney abnormalities
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Premature ovarian failure and other reproductive abnormalities
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Weak muscle tone
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Taller than average height
Some females with triple X syndrome also have abnormally curved pinky fingers and abnormally shaped breastbones.
What Can I Do If I Find Out My Baby Has Triple X Syndrome?
Learning that your baby is at risk of triple X syndrome can be unexpected, but it will let you understand what treatment options are available. Thanks to modern techniques and screening measures, it's possible for females with triple X syndrome to live happy, healthy lives.
If your baby is diagnosed with triple X syndrome, your general practitioner or OB/GYN may recommend periodic screenings, educational assistance, and early intervention services. Depending on the severity of your child's condition, these services might include speech therapy, physical therapy, or developmental therapy.
Additionally, you may find it useful to connect with others. There are a number of support groups for people with X and Y chromosome disorders, including The Association for X and Y Chromosome Variations and the National Organization for Rare Disorders' Triple X Support Group.
