An Overview of Adults With Klinefelter Syndrome
Little is known about adults diagnosed with
Klinefelter syndrome. Klinefelter syndrome research studies have focused largely on infants with Klinefelter syndrome. Because these studies were started recently, only a few of these individuals have reached adulthood.
Adults With Klinefelter Syndrome: What Does the Research Say?
For men diagnosed with Klinefelter syndrome during adulthood, one study found that a group of males diagnosed between the ages of 27 and 37 suffered a number of setbacks in comparison to a similar group of XY males. The XXY men were more likely to have had histories of scholastic failure,
depression, and other psychological problems. They were also more likely to lack energy and enthusiasm.
But by the time the men with Klinefelter syndrome had reached their 40s, most of their problems had improved. The majority said that their energy and activity levels had increased, that they were more productive on the job, and that their relationships with other people had improved. In fact, the only difference between the XY males and the XXY males was that the men with Klinefelter syndrome were less likely to have been married.
That these men eventually overcame their troubled pasts is encouraging for all men with Klinefelter syndrome, and is particularly encouraging for those diagnosed in childhood. Had these men (diagnosed as adults) received counseling, support, and testosterone treatments beginning in childhood, these men might have avoided the difficulties of their 20s and 30s.
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