Cri-du-chat syndrome, never heard of it? We are not surprised but it is a condition that affects
around 1 in 20,000 newborn babies.
What is cri-du-chat syndrome?
Cri-du-chat syndrome also known as 5p minus syndrome it is a chromosomal condition that results when a piece of chromosome
5 is missing. Cri-du-chat syndrome occurs in an estimated 1 in 20,000 to 50,000 newborns, it accounts for between 0.15% and
1% of patients with severe learning difficulties.
Common physical symptoms
- Low muscle tone
- Cry that is high-pitched and sounds like a cat mewing
- Round faces
- Flattened bridge of the nose
- Downward slant to the eyes
- Low birth weight
- Slow growth rate
- Abnormally shaped or positioned ears
- Learning difficulties
- Partial webbing or fusing of fingers or toes
- Single line in the palm of the hand
- Slow of development of motor skills
- Small heads
- Small jaws
- Wide-set eyes
- Behavioural problems
- Possible hearing and vision problems
- Feeding problems
Behavioural problems
A number of abnormalities of behaviour have been described. They may or may not be present in varying amounts:
- Hyperactivity
- Aggression
- Tantrums
- Repetitive movements
- Hypersensitivity to sound
- Clumsiness
- Obsessive attachments to objects
Management of the syndromeNo specific treatment is available for this syndrome. Each child is different and as such will
have differing needs. Children my need help with learning, speech therapy, physical therapy often the child’s behavioural
problems need help to address. Growth and nutrition should be monitored to ensure that growth is not hindered by under nutrition.
Some children will need surgery to deal with congenital heart defects.
Future
Many children with the syndrome live happy and meaningful lives they develop some language
and motor skills and can go on to live semi independent lives if given the help and support that they need.Support Groups
Coping with a child who has this syndrome can be hard but it can help to contact other parents in the same position if
you want more information or help try contacting
