Triple X syndrome
"The triple X syndrome" is a chromosomal variation that involves the presence of an extra X chromosome the cells of a human female, occurring during the division of the parent's reproductive cells.
In a female cell, only one chromosome active at a time, so the triple X syndrome doesn't involve any severe medical complication or physical features. Some women with this syndrome may be slightly taller than the average. Serious mental affections are uncommon, but they do have an increased risk of learning disabilities, and may show a delay in language and speaking skills. Females with this syndrome may show an increased sensibility and seem to be more creative and empathic. Physical features are recognizable during adolescence, and some affected women may experience menstrual cycle irregularity. However, most of them are perfectly able to conceive and give birth to children, with a normal sexual development. It shows high level of estrogen. In fact, many of the women with triple-X syndrome are not even diagnosed because syndromes are seldom causing any worry. Despite these symptoms, the triple X syndrome can be diagnosed only by karyotype testing.
Cause and incidence
The triple X syndrome occurs randomly, during the formation of the reproductive cells. A non-disjunction in cell division causes the existence of an extra chromosome in the reproductive cells. If any of these cells is involved in the genetic creation of the child, the child will have this extra chromosome. The triple X syndrome is not hereditary. However, due to its nature, it can be diagnosed even before the child is actually born. Carrying a child with triple X syndrome involves no supplemental risks compared to a normal pregnancy, and does not cause any complication at birth.
The triple X syndrome's incidence is of about 1 case in 1,000 with no obvious geographical dependency.