FACT SHEET ABOUT
TURNER SYNDROME
Q.
What is Turner Syndrome?
A. A chromosomal condition that occurs when one of the two X
chromosomes normally found in females is missing, damaged, or
incomplete.
Q.
What causes Turner Syndrome?
A. It appears to be a random event that can happen to anyone and no
real causes have been found to be linked to this condition.
Q.
What are some common characteristics of this syndrome?
A. These include:
 Short neck with a webbed appearance
 Low hairline at the back of the neck
 Low set ears
 Hands and feet may be swollen or puffy at birth
 Soft nails that turn upward at the ends when older
 Multiple pigmented nevi (colored spots on the skin)
 Short stature-adult height about 4 ft. 8 in.
 Infertility and loss of development of secondary sexual
characteristics such as breast development
 Heart problems/high blood pressure
 Kidney problems
 Osteoporosis
 Diabetes
 Thyroid disorder-usually hypothyroidism ( low thyroid hormone
production)
 In general, normal intelligence is noted
 Math or spatial problems may be more difficult to learn
 Sometimes difficulties with memory and motor coordination
Q.
What are some important tips in caring for someone with Turner
Syndrome?
A. Maintain medical care as treatment includes the use of growth
hormone and estrogen therapy and possibly cardiac and kidney
surgery. It is currently believed that with regular medical care a
woman with Turner Syndrome can lead a full, productive life.
Follow agency policy.
Source: APS HCQU PowerPoint Presentation – “Turner Syndrome”
For more information on this or any other physical or behavioral health topic,
please call the APS HCQU office at 888-321-5861 or visit our website at
www.hcqu.apshealthcare.com.
Disclaimer: “Information or education provided by the HCQU is not intended
to replace medical advice from the consumer’s personal care physician, existing
facility policy or federal, state and local regulations/codes within the agency
jurisdiction. The information provided on this facts sheet is not all inclusive of
this topic.
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