Is Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome serious?

Most children and adults with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome do not have serious medical problems associated with the condition. Their life expectancy is usually normal.

What are the symptoms of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome?

The most common features of BWS include macrosomia (large body size), macroglossia (large tongue), abdominal wall defects, an increased risk for childhood tumors, kidney abnormalities, hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in the newborn period, and unusual ear creases or pits.

What causes BWS syndrome?

Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is the most common overgrowth and cancer predisposition disorder. BWS is caused by changes on chromosome 11p15. 5 and is characterized by a wide spectrum of symptoms and physical findings that vary in range and severity from person to person.

Is Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome a disability?

If you or your dependent(s) are diagnosed with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome Due To 11P15 Microdeletion and experience any of these symptoms, you may be eligible for disability benefits from the U.S. Social Security Administration.

How do you test for Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome?

Testing is usually indicated by abnormal ultrasound, including omphalocele, macroglossia, or enlarged abdominal organs in the fetus. Placental mesenchymal dysplasia, polyhydramnios, or increased alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the second trimester can also occur (59).

Is Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome curable?

Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome has no cure, but some treatments can help ease its symptoms. The most common Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome treatments include: Medicine: Some infants require medicine for low blood sugar that persists past their first month.

How is Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome treated?

Treatment may include medication for hypoglycemia, surgery to repair an omphalocele or other birth defect , or surgery to reduce size of the tongue (macroglossia repair). Early intervention, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy may also be recommended.

Is Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome diagnosed at birth?

Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome is a growth disorder that causes large body size, large organs, and other symptoms. It is a congenital condition, which means it is present at birth.

What kind of genetic disorder is Prader Willi syndrome?

Prader–Willi syndrome. Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disorder due to loss of function of specific genes.

Why do people with PWS have high ghrelin levels?

In the hypothalamus of people with PWS, nerve cells that produce oxytocin, a hormone thought to contribute to satiety, have been found to be abnormal. People with PWS have high ghrelin levels, which are thought to directly contribute to the increased appetite, hyperphagia, and obesity seen in this syndrome.

When do you need group home for Prader Willi syndrome?

Strict food supervision is typically required starting around the age of three, in combination with an exercise program. Growth hormone therapy also improves outcomes. Counseling and medications may help with some behavioral problems. Group homes are often necessary in adulthood. PWS affects between 1 in 10,000 and 1 in 30,000 people.

When does hyperphagia begin in Prader Willi syndrome?

Hyperphagia (overeating) begins between the ages of 2 and 8, and continues on throughout adulthood. Individuals with PWS are at risk of learning and attention difficulties. Curfs and Fryns (1992) conducted research into the varying degrees of learning disability found in PWS. Their results, using a measure of IQ, were as follows: