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XYY Syndrome

Overview

XYY Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder affecting approximately 1 in 1,000 males. It is caused by the presence of an extra Y chromosome and affects only males.

Characteristics/Symptoms

A newborn boy with the XYY Syndrome has no significant noticeable physical characteristics except for increased height. As the boys develop, the most common traits and symptoms include:

  • Antisocial or behavioral problems
  • Normal intelligence, although IQ may be 10 to 15 points lower than brothers and sisters
  • Physically and sexually aggressive behavior
  • Lack of coordination
  • Developmental delay
  • Increased height
  • Thin stature
  • Long face
  • Long fingers
  • Increased physical activity
  • Severe acne during adolescence
  • Learning disabilities

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Causes

Males normally have one X and one Y chromosome. Individuals with XYY Syndrome have one X and two Y chromosomes. No definite causes of this chromosome abnormality have been identified. Only rarely do XYY males have XYY sons.

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Treatment

It is recommended that excessive physical activity be channeled into sports, play and other appropriate physical outlets. If speech development is delayed, speech therapy may be beneficial. An educational environment which addresses learning problems will also be of help.

At ODTC, we attempt to provide a highly structured, stimulating, motivating and reinforcing environment. Our treatment team identifies symptoms and behaviors in need of active treatment and considers the strengths and needs of each child in developing an individual treatment plan. We establish consistent routines which become familiar to the child, providing safety and security. Our highly structured environment defines expectations which assist the child to participate in and benefit from treatment. Highly prescribed, specific behavioral intervention systems are used not only to teach skills in all areas of functioning, but to facilitate progress in developing pro-social behaviors and reducing undesirable, aggressive or antisocial behaviors. Another focus of treatment is to assist the child in developing appropriate peer and adult relationships, improving social interaction and independent living skills, as well as internalized control over impulsive or aggressive behaviors. Our education staff offer a curriculum and classroom support specific to the needs of the child, designed to enhance the child's strengths, utilizing teaching methods and modalities based on the child's best learning mode.

The staff at ODTC recognize that each child is unique with individual strengths and needs. Our priority is always the well being of each child. If we find that ODTC cannot offer the very best care and services for your child, we are happy to help facilitate placement in another facility.

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Contact Information

Feel free to contact us if you have any specific questions or would simply like more information or resources.

E-Mail (please click on the link): Mike Purpura, Director of Community Relations
Phone: 1-262-569-5515, Extension 3140

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Related Links

UNIQUE-Rare Chromosome Disorder Support Group
National Organization for Rare Disorders
March of Dimes

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This information is provided as a general overview only and is not intended as medical advice. This information should not be used to diagnose or treat any health problem, disease or medical condition. It is not provided as a substitute for professional care. If you have any health concerns, please consult the health care provider of your choice.

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Oconomowoc Developmental Training Center | 36100 Genesee Lake Rd. Oconomowoc, WI 53066
262-569-5515 | Fax: 262-569-6337
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