What is Fragile X syndrome?

Also known as: FRAXA, FXS.

Fragile X syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by a mutation (change) on the X chromosome that affects brain development and function. It is the most common inherited cause of mental retardation (and autism). Behavior and learning challenges (children can find it hard to understand and process information), are common, and the condition occurs more frequently in boys (who tend to have a more severe intellectual disability and behavior problems ) than girls and is found in all racial and ethnic groups.

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Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf MD.

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM