Angelman/Prader-Willi Locus

Angelman/Prader-Willi Locus disorders can cause various symptoms depending on which specific genes are affected. However, some common symptoms are often seen in individuals with these disorders. This section will discuss some of the most common symptoms associated with Angelman/Prader-Willi Locus disorders.

Symptoms of Angelman Syndrome:

• Developmental delay or intellectual disability
• Lack of speech or minimal speech
• Seizures typically beginning in childhood
• Difficulty with movement and balance
• Characteristic behaviors such as hand flapping, a happy demeanor, and frequent laughter
• Sleep disturbance, often waking up frequently during the night
• Sensitivity to heat
• Feeding difficulties, including difficulty swallowing and gagging
• Short attention span and hyperactivity

Symptoms of Prader-Willi Syndrome:

• Extreme hunger and difficulty controlling food intake, which can lead to obesity and related health problems
• Developmental delay or intellectual disability
• Poor muscle tone and coordination
• Short stature
• Hypogonadism (underdeveloped sex organs), which can lead to infertility or other complications later in life
• Behavioral problems, such as tantrums, stubbornness, and obsessive-compulsive tendencies
• Sleep apnea, which can cause difficulty breathing during sleep and lead to disrupted sleep patterns

While the symptoms of Angelman/Prader-Willi Locus disorders can be challenging, some treatments and therapies can help manage many of the associated health and developmental issues. If you suspect your child may have an Angelman/Prader-Willi Locus disorder, you must speak with a healthcare provider as soon as possible to receive a proper diagnosis and begin appropriate treatment.