Is Joubert syndrome a disability?

Is Joubert syndrome a disability?

An infant born with Joubert Syndrome may demonstrate weak muscle tone and have bouts of fast or slow breathing. As the child grows, coordinating movements become difficult and he or she may show signs of intellectual disability.

Is Joubert syndrome progressive?

Treatment for Joubert syndrome is symptomatic and supportive. Infants with abnormal breathing patterns should be monitored. The syndrome is associated with progressive worsening for kidneys, the liver and the eyes and thus requires regular monitoring.

What gene causes Joubert syndrome?

A mutation in the NPHP1 (JBTS4) gene causes approximately 1-2% of Joubert syndrome. Affected individuals with this gene mutation often develop a progressive kidney disease called nephronophthisis. A mutation in the CEP290 (JBTS5) gene causes about 7-10% of Joubert syndrome.

Is Joubert syndrome fatal?

Some children have mild effects, with only minor symptoms and almost normal development. Others experience significant problems with development, severe impairment in function and organ involvement. Joubert syndrome can be fatal in childhood. Researchers are still studying life expectancy with this rare condition.

Is Joubert a neurological disorder?

Joubert syndrome is a rare brain malformation characterized by the absence or underdevelopment of the cerebellar vermis – an area of the brain that controls balance and coordination — as well as a malformed brain stem (molar tooth sign).

How often does learning disability occur with Joubert syndrome?

Joubert syndrome is estimated to affect between 1 in 80,000 and 1 in 100,000 newborns. However, this estimate may be too low because Joubert syndrome has such a large range of possible features and is likely underdiagnosed.

Can Joubert syndrome be cured?

There is no cure for Joubert syndrome, so treatment focuses on the symptoms. 6 Infants with abnormal breathing may have a breathing (apnea) monitor for use at home, especially at night. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy may be helpful for some individuals.

How does Joubert syndrome occur?

Joubert syndrome is caused by mutations in 35 or more genes. It can be inherited within families or happen by chance (with no known family link). The genetic mutations cause cilia to form incorrectly. Cilia are like tiny antennas on cells that help them communicate with each other.

What type of disorder is Joubert syndrome?

Is Joubert syndrome curable?

Treatment for Joubert syndrome is symptomatic and supportive. Infant stimulation and physical, occupational, and speech therapy may benefit some children. Infants with abnormal breathing patterns should be monitored.

What kind of kidney disease does Joubert syndrome cause?

A mutation in the NPHP1 ( JBTS4) gene causes approximately 1-2% of Joubert syndrome. Affected individuals with this gene mutation often develop a progressive kidney disease called nephronophthisis. A mutation in the CEP290 ( JBTS5) gene causes about 7-10% of Joubert syndrome.

When did the Joubert syndrome and Related Disorders Foundation start?

Since 1992, the Joubert Syndrome & Related Disorders Foundation has been helping families all around the world. We are an international network of parents who share knowledge, experience, and emotional support. Join our community today. Together we can do so much. What is Joubert Syndrome?

What causes impaired vision in people with Joubert syndrome?

A mutation in the AHI1 (JBTS3) gene is responsible for this condition in approximately 11% of families. Affected individuals with this gene mutation often have impaired vision due to retinal dystrophy. A mutation in the NPHP1 (JBTS4) gene causes approximately 1-2% of Joubert syndrome.

How does Joubert syndrome affect balance and coordination?

Joubert syndrome is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder that affects the area of the brain that controls balance and coordination. This condition is characterized by a specific finding on an MRI called a “molar tooth sign” in which the cerebellar vermis of the brain is absent or underdeveloped and the brain stem is abnormal.