Which gender is primarily affected by Rett syndrome?

Which gender is primarily affected by Rett syndrome?

• A. Boys
• B. Girls
• C. Both genders equally
• D. Neither gender

Answer: (B)

Rett syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily affects girls. This condition typically presents after a period of normal development, usually between six months to two years of age, and it is caused by mutations in the MECP2 gene, which is located on the X chromosome. Since girls have two X chromosomes, the presence of a mutation in one may be compensated by the normal gene on the other X chromosome, allowing them to survive with the condition. Conversely, boys, having only one X chromosome, typically experience more severe effects from a similar mutation, often leading to early mortality or miscarriage. This X-linked pattern of inheritance contributes to the significantly higher prevalence of Rett syndrome in females compared to males, making it predominantly a disorder that affects girls.

Rett syndrome is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily affects girls. This condition typically presents after a period of normal development, usually between six months to two years of age, and it is caused by mutations in the MECP2 gene, which is located on the X chromosome. Since girls have two X chromosomes, the presence of a mutation in one may be compensated by the normal gene on the other X chromosome, allowing them to survive with the condition. Conversely, boys, having only one X chromosome, typically experience more severe effects from a similar mutation, often leading to early mortality or miscarriage. This X-linked pattern of inheritance contributes to the significantly higher prevalence of Rett syndrome in females compared to males, making it predominantly a disorder that affects girls.