Fragile X-associated disorders: a clinical overview

J Neurol. 2012 Mar;259(3):401-13. doi: 10.1007/s00415-011-6161-3. Epub 2011 Jul 12.

Abstract

Fragile X Syndrome (FraX) is the most common inherited cause of learning disability worldwide. FraX is an X-linked neuro-developmental disorder involving an unstable trinucleotide repeat expansion of cytosine guanine guanine (CGG). Individuals with the full mutation of FraX have >200 GG repeats with premutation carriers having 55-200 GG repeats. A wide spectrum of physical, behavioural, cognitive, psychiatric and medical problems have been associated with both full mutation and premutation carriers of FraX. In this review, we detail the clinical profile and examine the aetiology, epidemiology, neuropathology, neuroimaging findings and possible management strategies for individuals with both the full mutation and premutation of FraX.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Female
  • Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein / genetics*
  • Fragile X Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Fragile X Syndrome* / genetics
  • Fragile X Syndrome* / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neuroimaging
  • Trinucleotide Repeat Expansion / genetics*

Substances

  • Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein