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WHAT IS RETT SYNDROME? THIS IS RETT SYNDROME! Rett syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting approximately 1 in 10,000 females. It is much rarer in males. Girls with Rett syndrome experience typical development until 6-18 months of age followed by a period of regression of purposeful hand movements and motor skills. Individuals with Rett syndrome develop stereotypical hand movements and experience gait disturbances and slowing head growth. Intellectual disability, absent or decreased speech, seizures, and breathing abnormalities are common, as well as scoliosis, cardiac function abnormalities, and problems with chewing, swallowing, and digestion. Rett syndrome is caused by a mutation in MECP2, a gene on the X chromosome. In the vast majority of cases, it is not inherited. ere is no cure. Photo courtesy of Index Journal
