Putting a Spotlight On

Each month The Arc of New Jersey Family Institute spotlights a different developmental disability to help build awareness and educate others about the disability. Learn more below.

What is Turner Syndrome?

Turner syndrome is a condition that only affects females and results when one of the X chromosomes is missing or partially missing.

What are the signs/symptoms?

Signs/Symptoms before birth include:
- Large fluid collection on the back of the neck or other abnormal fluid collections (edema)
- Heart abnormalities
- Abnormal kidneys
Signs/Symptoms at birth/infancy include:
- Wide or weblike neck
- Low-set ears
- Broad chest
- And more...
Signs/Symptoms in childhood include:
- Slowed growth
- No growth spurts at expected times in childhood
- Failure to begin sexual changes expected during puberty

What is Turner Syndrome a result of?

Turner syndrome occurs when part or all of an X chromosome is missing from most or all of the cells in a girl's body. A girl normally receives one X chromosome from each parent. The error that leads to the missing chromosome appears to happen during the formation of the egg or sperm.

What are the complications of Turner Syndrome?