Rett syndrome

Updated: 2017-06-13

Overview

Rett syndrome is caused by a gene mutation. Rarely, it's inherited.

Symptoms

Infants seem healthy during the first six months, but over time, rapidly lose coordination, speech, and use of the hands. Symptoms may then stabilize for years.

Treatments

There is no cure, but medications, physical and speech therapy, and nutritional support help manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve quality of life.