Gemss syndrome

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Gemss syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by a combination of symptoms that can include growth retardation, eye abnormalities, microcephaly (small head size), seizures, and skin abnormalities. The syndrome is named after the initials of the five main features: Growth retardation, Eye abnormalities, Microcephaly, Seizures, and Skin abnormalities.

Symptoms and Signs[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of Gemss syndrome can vary greatly from person to person. However, the five main features of the syndrome are:

  • Growth retardation: This refers to a slower than normal rate of growth. In the case of Gemss syndrome, this can affect both physical and mental development.
  • Eye abnormalities: These can include a range of different issues, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal detachment. These problems can lead to vision loss if not treated.
  • Microcephaly: This is a condition where the head is smaller than normal because the brain has not developed properly or has stopped growing.
  • Seizures: People with Gemss syndrome often experience seizures, which are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain.
  • Skin abnormalities: These can include a range of different issues, such as eczema, psoriasis, and vitiligo.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Gemss syndrome is a genetic disorder, which means it is caused by abnormalities in the genes. It is thought to be inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, which means both parents must carry a copy of the faulty gene for a child to be affected.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Gemss syndrome is based on the presence of the five main features of the syndrome. Genetic testing can also be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

There is currently no cure for Gemss syndrome. Treatment is focused on managing the symptoms and improving the quality of life for those affected. This can include medication to control seizures, surgery to correct eye abnormalities, and therapy to help with developmental delays.

See also[edit | edit source]

NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]

Gemss syndrome is a rare disease.




Gemss syndrome Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD