Symptoms Of Angelman Syndrome To Watch For

Angelman syndrome is a genetic condition most often caused by the deletion of part of the fifteenth chromosome. An estimated 500,000 individuals around the world have this syndrome, and it occurs at a rate of one in every fifteen thousand. The condition affects patients of every race and gender. Patients with Angelman syndrome have a normal life expectancy, and they typically require continuous care. Symptoms tend to appear at around six months of age. Although patients with this condition are unable to live independently and may not speak, they are normally very happy individuals, laughing and smiling frequently. Blood tests can confirm a diagnosis of Angelman syndrome, and treatment focuses on improving communication and quality of life. The syndrome is often misdiagnosed as autism or cerebral palsy.