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By Lisa Priddy, M.S., CCC-SLP
What is Angelman Syndrome?
Angelman Syndrome (AS) is a genetic, neurological disorder. Children with AS are missing a part of chromosome 15. It usually occurs one in every 10,000 to 25,000 children. Harold Angelman, a pediatrician, first identified AS in 1965. Typically, diagnosis of Angelman Syndrome occurs between ages three to seven.
Common Physical and Developmental Features of AS
- Wide, smiling mouth, thin upper lip, prominent chin, and deep set eyes
- Below average head size
- Jerky body movements
- Delayed motor development, including sitting and walking
- Fair hair and blue eyes
- Speech delays
- Severe learning disabilities
- Poor feeding problems, including difficulties sucking and limited weight gain
- Significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and adaptive skills (social skills and activities of daily living)
Behavioral Characteristics
Children with Angelman Syndrome exhibit many similar behaviors. They are typically very happy, affectionate, sociable, and may laugh at inappropriate times. It is also common for children with Angelman Syndrome to be hyperactive, have a limited attention span, and require far less sleep than their peers.
Communication Skills
Children with Angelman Syndrome tend to have problems with speech development. Most AS children have limited speech (up to four words) or no speech at all. They may develop single word use between 10-18 months of age (i.e.; mama); however, they tend to use these words infrequently and without meaning. Their comprehension skills or receptive are usually stronger than their expressive skills. The majority of children with Angelman Syndrome express their needs using sign language, gestures, and picture communication boards.
Treatment and Prognosis
Children with Angelman Syndrome benefit significantly from special education services. Early speech, physical, and occupational therapies help improve their communication, gross, and fine motor skills. As these individuals reach adulthood, their hyperactivity decreases and sleep patterns improve. Many AS children grow up to be able to live with limited independence in adult community homes.
Information
Find parent support and further information on Angelman Syndrome at: Angelman Syndrome Foundation, Inc. 1-800-432-6435 http://www.angelman.org Resources
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