Klinefelter Syndrome: Symptoms, Complications, Diagnosis Explained

What is Klinefelter syndrome?

Klinefelter syndrome is a type of genetic condition in which an extra X chromosome is present in the genetic code. In general, individuals have 46 chromosomes, including the XX (female) and XY (male) chromosomes. However, in the case of Klinefelter syndrome in males, the individual has an extra X chromosome, making the total 47.

Klinefelter syndrome is a condition that you are born with, and the Klinefelter syndrome symptoms you display may be different from that of another individual. Many people might receive a Klinefelter syndrome diagnosis early in life, but some do not even know they have Klinefelter syndrome till adulthood when they experience symptoms like infertility. Today, most cases of Klinefelter syndrome can be identified through prenatal genetic screening.

How common is Klinefelter syndrome?

Klinefelter syndrome is a common condition, with 1 in 600 males with the genetic abnormality. However, it is believed that almost 70% to 80% of these individuals may not be aware that they have Klinefelter syndrome.

What are the symptoms of Klinefelter syndrome?

Your Klinefelter syndrome symptoms may vary in severity based on how many extra X chromosomes you have. Some people with Klinefelter syndrome may display several of the below-mentioned symptoms, while others may not show any apparent signs. Klinefelter syndrome symptoms are categorised into physical and neurological types.

Physical Klinefelter syndrome symptoms

Physical Klinefelter syndrome symptoms affect the body and how it works. Males with Klinefelter syndrome may have:

• A smaller penis
• Undescended testicles
• Flat feet
• Atypical body proportions, for example, can be tall with long legs and a shorter trunk
• Coordination issues
• Testicular issues, including the lack of sperm or testosterone creation
• Weak bone structure, increasing the risk of fractures
• Risk of blood clots
• Fertility issues

Neurological Klinefelter syndrome symptoms

Neurological Klinefelter syndrome symptoms include learning differences, mental health issues, and behavioural issues. Including:

• Anxiety
• Social, emotional, or behavioural issues
• Learning difficulties, especially when reading and language challenges
• Impulsive behaviour
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
• Speech delay
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Depression

What causes Klinefelter syndrome?

Klinefelter syndrome is when the individual has an extra X chromosome in their genetic code. This can happen in three different ways. Klinefelter syndrome causes include:

• If there is an extra X chromosome present in the sperm
• There is an extra X chromosome in the egg
• The cells divide incorrectly during foetal development, in which case some cells and not all have extra X chromosomes.

What are the complications of Klinefelter syndrome?

Individuals with Klinefelter syndrome may develop metabolic conditions such as:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Hypertension/High Blood Pressure
• Obesity
• High cholesterol
• High triglycerides

Other Klinefelter syndrome complications include:

• Breast cancer
• Tremors
• Osteoporosis
• Gynecomastia
• Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease
• Seizures

How is Klinefelter syndrome diagnosed?

Klinefelter syndrome can be diagnosed at multiple stages of an individual's life, such as:

• During foetal development, when running genetic tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling
• During childhood or teenage years when your healthcare provider may notice abnormal growth or delayed development (during puberty)
• During adulthood, if you have to test for fertility issues such as low testosterone

Most people with mild cases of Klinefelter syndrome may not display any Klinefelter syndrome symptoms, thus never knowing they have this condition.

What tests can help diagnose Klinefelter syndrome?

Genetic tests that aim to detect and identify extra X chromosomes help diagnose Klinefelter syndrome. Karyotyping is one of the most commonly used genetic tests where a blood sample is collected and studied to determine the number and type of chromosomes present in the cells. Karyotyping can be used for children, adults and even foetuses before birth.

Children with Klinefelter syndrome may also need to undergo neuropsychological testing regularly to identify any learning challenges and help educators navigate the issue effectively.

What are the treatment options for Klinefelter Syndrome?

As this condition is something you are born with, Klinefelter syndrome treatment revolves around emanating the symptoms and not curing or getting rid of them. Klinefelter syndrome treatment options include

Hormone Replacement

As individuals with Klinefelter syndrome have issues with fertility and the production of testosterone, Klinefelter syndrome medication can help regulate hormones and minimise some of the symptoms of Klinefelter syndrome. Some people with Klinefelter syndrome may not start puberty, while others may start it but stop midway or regress. This may happen because the testicles "fail" and are not able to create sperm or testosterone. Most healthcare providers may suggest testosterone injections for smaller kids and teenagers, while adults with Klinefelter syndrome may need other Klinefelter syndrome treatment options, such as testosterone gels or patches.

The main goals of hormone replacement therapy are:

• more facial and body hair
• a deeper voice
• increasing muscle strength
• increasing bone health
• increased sexual desire
• improved mood, overall mental health, and self-image

Therapy

As part of your Klinefelter syndrome treatment, you may need to visit:

• A speech therapist to aid in speech development
• Physical therapist to build muscles
• Occupational therapists for better skill and coordination
• Family, educational, or behavioural therapist for psychological support.

Surgery

Individuals with Klinefelter syndrome are more likely to develop extra breast tissue that is likely to stay. If the extra tissue causes grief, your doctor may suggest gynecomastia surgery to get rid of the excess tissue.

Is Klinefelter syndrome preventable?

As Klinefelter syndrome is due to a change in your genetic code, it is almost impossible to prevent.

What is the outlook for Klinefelter syndrome?

If you or your child receive a Klinefelter syndrome diagnosis, you should meet a genetic counsellor as soon as possible. You may also need to visit an endocrinologist who will advise you on when to start testosterone replacement therapy or other treatment options.

How long can a person live with Klinefelter syndrome?

Individuals with Klinefelter syndrome can live an entire, happy, healthy life by taking the Klinefelter syndrome treatment.

When to see a doctor?

Parents should schedule a visit to their healthcare provider if they notice developmental delays like crawling, learning to walk, or talking. In the teenage years, if you see your child has any of the mentioned physical symptoms, such as short torsos, long legs, or is taller than average, then visit the doctor without any delay. Adults with Klinefelter syndrome should visit the doctor if they notice any new symptoms or a change in existing symptoms.

Conclusion

After learning that your child has Klinefelter syndrome do not panic. With the help of your healthcare provider, regular testing, and therapy, those with Klinefelter syndrome can live a healthy life. We at Metropolis Labs provide reliable health check-ups and testing facilities. For those who are not willing to step out of their house, we also provide an at-home testing facility. Experts collect the sample from your home and the accurate results are shared with you at either Metropolis labs app or online via email.