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Prader-Willi syndrome

Description

Prader-Willi syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by partial deletion of chromosome 15 (paternal) or disomy (maternal). Children with Prader-Willi syndrome have mental retardation and abnormal food-related behaviors. Prader-Willi syndrome is characterized by feeding problems during infancy, and hyperphagia, often resulting in obesity, in childhood and adolescence.

Possible effects on growth

  • Children with Prader-Willi syndrome have short stature.
  • Initial problems with poor feeding and poor weight gain occur during infancy.
  • Abnormal behaviors related to food and eating (hyperphagia, stealing food) lead to obesity if not carefully managed.
   
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