Skip Ribbon Commands
Skip to main content
Menu

Turner Syndrome

Turner Syndrome - What it is


What is Turner syndrome?

Turner syndrome (TS) is a chromosomal condition that describes girls and women with common features, physical traits and medical conditions that are caused by the complete or partial absence of one X chromosome.

Typically, females have 46 chromosomes which include two X chromosomes, while males have one X and one Y chromosome.

Female and Male Chromosomes

How common is TS?

It is estimated that TS occurs in approximately one in 2,000 live female births.

Are there different types of TS?

Girls who are missing one complete X chromosome have what is called monosomy X, often referred to as 'classic TS'.

Others are missing only a part of the second X chromosome, or have some structural rearrangements of the chromosome.

Girls who have a missing or rearranged chromosome in some but not all cells of the body have a mosaic karyotype.


Karyotype showing classic TS

Karyotype showing classic Turner syndrome


Turner Syndrome - Symptoms

What are the features of TS?

The features of TS can vary widely and it is important to note that not all the features described will be seen in your child. Some girls and women with TS or mosaic TS have minimal or no symptoms.

Syndrome of TS

  • Growth. Short stature (occurs in 95-100%)
  • Physical features. Lymphoedema (puffy hands and feet), broad chest and widely spaced nipples, droopy eyelids, low hairline, low-set ears, webbing of the skin of the neck, short fourth toe and short fingers, and arms that turn out slightly at the elbows
  • Cardiovascular (heart and blood vessels). Congenital heart disease (occurs in 23-50%) with heart defects such as aortic coarctation and bicuspid aortic valve, and hypertension (multifactorial)
  • Endocrine. Pubertal failure and infertility due to non-functioning ovaries, autoimmune hypothyroidism and osteoporosis
  • Kidney. Structural abnormalities of the kidney (e.g., horseshoe kidney) (occurs in 24-42%)
  • Ears. Chronic or recurrent middle ear infections, conductive and/or sensorineural hearing loss
  • Skin. Pigmented nevi (small brown moles on the skin)
  • Learning. The majority of individuals with TS are of average intelligence. Some may have impairments in visuospatial abilities, emotional immaturity, or specific learning disorders. Psychological and behavioural problems such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may also be present.
  • Susceptibility to certain medical conditions.Includes diabetes mellitus type 1, coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel disease

Turner Syndrome - How to prevent?

Turner Syndrome - Causes and Risk Factors

TS occurs when all or part of one of the X chromosomes is absent or altered before or soon after the time of conception. It is not connected to or passed on from either parent, and there is nothing a person can do to increase or decrease the likelihood of their child having TS.

Turner Syndrome - Diagnosis

The diagnosis of TS is made by looking at the complete set of chromosomes of the individual. This is called a karyotype. A karyotype shows the number and visual appearance of the chromosomes found in the cells of a person.

  • Before birth
    The diagnosis can be made by taking a sample of amniotic fluid, or other foetal tissue, to look at the fetal karyotype.
  • After birth
    The diagnosis is confirmed by taking a sample of blood or other tissue to obtain a karyotype.

Turner Syndrome - Treatments

Can TS be cured?

While it is not possible to cure TS, much can be done to make sure your child has the best possible outcome.

How is TS managed?

The multidisciplinary medical team looking after your child will be able to address specific medical concerns and routine TS-related healthcare issues.

Treatment for those with TS should be individualised. Doctors, families and patients should decide on treatment options together.

Ongoing evaluation of the heart, liver, thyroid and hearing is needed from birth and throughout adult life.

Growth hormone therapy

Growth hormone (GH) therapy is recommended for short stature to optimise final height potential.

GH can be started at 4-5 years of age, and involves an injection given daily via the subcutaneous route. GH therapy is generally continued until a child reaches her final height.

Hormone replacement therapy

For girls with pubertal failure, puberty can be initiated with the use of oestrogen replacement therapy. Oestrogen therapy is also important for the prevention of osteoporosis.

Oestrogen can be given in the form of a tablet, skin patch or injection. Progesterone is added after oestrogen to help to produce withdrawal bleeds (like periods). Once hormone treatment has begun, it is usually continued throughout life.

Below are some related medical issues and how they can be managed:

Medical issue Treatment
HypertensionRegular blood pressure monitoring
Learning difficultiesEarly intervention therapies
InfertilityWhile a small number of women with TS will be able to get pregnant naturally, the vast majority will be infertile. Assisted conception using various forms of in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) may be successful.
LymphoedemaPhysiotherapy and support stockings

The social and psychological impact of TS cannot be underestimated and should be a priority in the care of any girl or woman with the condition. It is highly beneficial for them to connect with others who share similar experiences and concerns.

Turner Syndrome - Preparing for surgery

Turner Syndrome - Post-surgery care

Turner Syndrome - Other Information

How likely will I have another child with TS?

The risk of having another child with TS is low.

TS is a lifelong condition. Should you require financial assistance or emotional support, please approach your doctor for referral to a medical social worker.

​Support Group
Club Rainbow Singapore
Club Rainbow Singapore supports and empowers children with chronic illnesses and their families by providing relevant compassionate services in their journey.
Tel: 6377 1789
Email: contact@clubrainbow.org
www.clubrainbow.org


Download the Turner Syndrome brochure.


The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

TOP