Some syndromes affect your life from the beginning, and some impact afterward. Klinefelter syndrome is a genetic syndrome wherein a boy is born with an additional X chromosome. So, instead of having the XY chromosome, boys born with this syndrome will have the xxy chromosome. That’s the reason this syndrome is also called xxy syndrome.
Men born with xxy syndrome are not aware they have it once they start witnessing issues in having a child. There are some xxy symptoms that must be detected at the early stage.
What Are The Symptoms of xxy Syndrome?
Some of the men will start showing xxy syndrome symptoms when they are children. But it is around puberty and adulthood they will actually realize they have a syndrome.
It is essential to understand that symptoms of Klinefelter will vary according to age:
Symptoms in Babies:
- Quieter than usual
- Hernia
- Slow to learn to talk, crawl and sit
- Testicles not dropping to the scrotum
- Weak muscles
Symptoms in Children:
- Difficulty in making friends and opening-up
- Decreased energy levels
- Hard time reading, writing, and doing math
- Low confidence and shyness
Symptoms in Teenagers:
- Large breasts
- Less body and facial hair
- Less muscle growth and tone
- Wider hips, longer arms, and a shorter torso
- Firm testicles and small penis
Symptoms in Adults:
- Lower sex drive
- Infertility
- Fewer testosterone levels
- Difficulty in keeping the erection
How Can You Diagnose xxy Syndrome?
Just like any other syndrome, a doctor will first examine your condition through physical examination and a detailed questionnaire. The physical examination will include examining your chest and genitals for a better understanding of your condition. The tests will be aimed to assess reflexes and functioning.
The primary test for Klinefelter syndrome includes:
Hormone Testing: Hormone testing will take blood and urine samples to detect abnormal hormone levels in the body that indicates the presence of Klinefelter syndrome.
Chromosome Analysis: Karyotype analysis is used to diagnose Klinefelter syndrome in a man. It is done through a blood sample that checks the shape and number of chromosomes present in the body.
Only a small number of males are detected with xxy syndrome during birth. A majority of males realize they have Klinefelter syndrome when they become adults. During the pregnancy, the Klinefelter syndrome in babies can be identified. There is an examination to check the fetal cells from the amniotic fluid.
A non-invasive prenatal screening blood test can help in revealing whether there is a presence of Klinefelter syndrome. To further confirm the syndrome, an invasive prenatal screening would be required.
The earlier the syndrome is detected, the better. The delay in diagnosis can make things further complicated. When detected at an early age can reduce the risk of infertility in adulthood.
The Bottom Line
xxy syndrome is a hormone condition in which males are born with an additional X chromosome, hence the name. There are different diagnosis practices, and each possesses some importance in detecting the issue. Most of the males are not aware of this syndrome until they face fatal issues. Make sure to get yourself diagnosed at the right time.
