Are chromosomal disorders inherited?

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It is possible that chromosome abnormalities can be inherited from a parent (such as a translocation) or be “de novo” (new to the individual). However, not all are passed from the parent to the child.

Most of the chromosomal disorders are caused when a child has an extra or missing chromosome, i.e. count of the chromosome influences its occurrence, e.g. in disorders such as Down syndrome and Turner syndrome.

Some chromosomal disorders are also a result of change in the chromosome structure.

In many cases, there is no available treatment or cure for chromosomal abnormalities. However, genetic counselling, occupational therapy, physical therapy and medicines may be recommended.

Did you know?

How many chromosomes do humans have?

46 chromosomes. Humans typically have 23 pairs of chromosomes, or 46 chromosomes in total. Chromosomes also contain proteins that help DNA exist in the proper form. Of them one set of the 23 chromosomes are inherited from the biological mother (from the egg) and the other set is from the biological father (from the sperm).

The first 22 pairs of chromosomes are called the autosomes. The last pair are called the “sex chromosome”. Sex chromosomes determines the individual’s sex. If the last pair is XX, the individual is a female; if it is XY, the individual is a male

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