Rett’s Syndrome

Rett’s disorder, also referred to Rett’s syndrome, is quite rare and is almost always found in females.  Rett’s disorder is characterized by seemingly normal early development during the first 5 months or so, though hypotonia (loose muscle tone) and difficulty feeding is often present at birth.  Around 5 or 6 months of development, head and brain growth slows.  Children show loss of purposeful hand movements, and almost always involve repetitive hand-ringing or hand-washing type movements.  This behavior is usually constant while the child is awake.  Severe mental retardation is typical as is loss of language functioning.  As such, they typically have an autistic-like presentation and exhibit many of the behavioral and social difficulties associated with autism.  Many of these children also develop seizures and scoliosis.  In general, there is a steady loss of cognitive ability, motor function, and social, behavioral, and adaptive skills throughout the individual’s life.  However, some respond to therapy and make some gains.  Rett’s disorder is caused by a genetic mutation.