Treatments for Turner Syndrome

Because Turner syndrome is a problem with the chromosomes, it is incurable. However, there are treatments available to help control the features and symptoms of this condition. The different treatments for Turner syndrome may include regular screening, medications, surgery, and counseling.

 

An Overview of Treatments for Turner Syndrome

Because Turner syndrome is a problem with the chromosomes, there is no cure. Therefore, treatments for Turner syndrome focus on controlling the features and symptoms of this condition.
 
Treatments for Turner syndrome may include:
 
  • Regular screening
  • Medications
  • Surgery
  • Counseling and support.
     

Treatments for Turner Syndrome: Regular Screening

People with Turner syndrome are at increased risk for developing:
 
Because of these increased risks, the doctor will recommend regular screening appointments to check for these conditions. By diagnosing and treating these conditions early, their impact on a woman with Turner syndrome can be lessened.
 

Treatments for Turner Syndrome: Medications

Medications can be used to treat certain Turner syndrome features, including:
 
  • Short stature
  • Problems that result from decreased ovarian function, including:
o Infertility
o Abnormal breast development and menstrual cycle
o Osteoporosis.
Short Stature
The average adult height for a woman with Turner syndrome is 143-145 cm (approximately 4 feet 8 inches). Final adult height in Turner syndrome can be increased by a few inches if growth hormone (GH) treatment is given relatively early in childhood. However, not all individuals with Turner syndrome have a good growth response to GH.
(Treatments for Turner Syndrome Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD