XYY syndrome | |
---|---|
Other names | 47,XYY[1] |
Karyotype from a male with 47,XYY | |
Specialty | Medical genetics |
Symptoms | None, being taller than the parents, Mildly unusual physical features, severe acne, poor coordination, weak muscle tone, learning and speech problems[1][2] |
Usual onset | At conception[3] |
Duration | Lifelong |
Causes | Two Y chromosomes in males[2] |
Diagnostic method | Genetic testing[2] |
Differential diagnosis | Klinefelter syndrome, Marfan syndrome, Sotos syndrome[2] |
Prevention | None[4] |
Treatment | Speech therapy, tutoring[2] |
Prognosis | Normal life expectancy[2] |
Frequency | ~1 in 1,000 males[1] |
XYY syndrome, also known as Jacobs syndrome, is an aneuploid genetic condition in which a male has an extra Y chromosome.[1] There are usually few symptoms.[2] These may include being taller than average and an increased risk of learning disabilities.[1][2] The person is generally otherwise normal, including typical rates of fertility.[1]
The condition is generally not inherited but rather occurs as a result of a random event during sperm development.[1] Diagnosis is by a chromosomal analysis, but most of those affected are not diagnosed within their lifetime.[2] There are 47 chromosomes, instead of the usual 46, giving a 47,XYY karyotype.[1]
Treatment may include speech therapy or extra help with schoolwork, however outcomes are generally positive.[2] The condition occurs in about 1 in 1,000 male births.[1] Many people with the condition are unaware that they have it.[4] The condition was first described in 1961.[5]