About Rett syndrome

What is Rett syndrome?

Rett syndrome was first reported by Dr. Andreas Rett in 1966. Rett syndrome is a complex neurological and developmental disorder in which early growth and development appear normal at first, but then the infant stops developing and affected children even lose skills and abilities.1 Rett syndrome occurs mostly in females.

Over time, the effects of Rett syndrome can lead to cognitive, sensory, emotional, motor, cardiac, and such autonomic nervous system problems as difficulties with digestion or breathing.2

Citations

  1. Weaving, L. S., Ellaway, C. J., Gécz, J., & Christodoulou, J. (2005). Rett syndrome: Clinical review and genetic update. Journal of Medical Genetics, 42, 1–7.
  2. Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. (2006). Rett syndrome. Retrieved June 21, 2012.
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