Klinefelter syndrome can cause sparse facial hair, small testes, and breast development in men. This eMedTV selection takes a closer look at this genetic condition, including its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and more.
This part of the eMedTV library explains that the genetic cause of Klinefelter syndrome is an extra X chromosome, which is one of the chromosomes that affects sexual development. This page discusses the genetic cause of Klinefelter syndrome in detail.
Is Klinefelter syndrome hereditary? Although it does involve the genes, this condition is not hereditary. This eMedTV Web page discusses the genetic factors involved in Klinefelter syndrome and explains why the condition does not run in families.
Breast development, small testes, and sparse body hair are common symptoms of Klinefelter syndrome. This eMedTV article lists several symptoms and explains how men with the extra chromosome do not always have symptoms.
Doctors may use blood tests or prenatal testing when making a diagnosis of Klinefelter syndrome. As this eMedTV article explains, diagnosing Klinefelter syndrome can be difficult, because symptoms are not always apparent.
Klinefelter syndrome can often be managed through regular checkups, medications, and counseling. This page of the eMedTV library discusses these options along with other possible treatments for Klinefelter syndrome, with links to additional information.
Medical problems of Klinefelter syndrome include osteoporosis and male breast cancer. This part of the eMedTV library provides an overview of these and a few other medical problems that men with Klinefelter syndrome should be aware of.
The prognosis for Klinefelter syndrome is generally good, with most men leading full and active lives. This eMedTV segment includes information on the factors (such as other medical conditions) that can adversely affect the prognosis.
Research on Klinefelter syndrome is focused on understanding the disease better and finding a cure. This eMedTV article discusses research this condition in detail, including current areas of focus and potential benefits for research participants.
The history of Klinefelter syndrome began in 1942, when the first report on this condition was published. This eMedTV resource traces the history of Klinefelter syndrome and talks about how the XXY chromosomal arrangement is somewhat common.