Treatment:

Testosterone therapy may be prescribed. This can help:

• Grow body hair
• Improve appearance of muscles
• Improve concentration
• Improve mood and self esteem
• Increase energy and sex drive
• Increase strength

Most men with this syndrome are not able to father children. However, some men have been able to have children. An infertility specialist may be able to help.

Support Groups:

Expectations (prognosis):

Most patients have a normal, productive life.

Complications:

The syndrome increases the risk of:

• Attention deficient hyperactivity disorder
• Autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and Sjogren syndrome
• Breast cancer
• Depression
• Dyslexia
• Extragonadal germ cell tumor (a rare tumor)
• Learning disabilities, despite normal or high IQ
• Lung disease
• Osteoporosis
• Varicose veins

Enlarged teeth with a thinning surface (taurodontism) is very common in Klinefelter syndrome. It can be diagnosed by dental x-rays.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if a boy does not develop secondary sexual characteristics at puberty.

A genetics counselor can provide information about this condition, and help explain abnormal chromosome findings and possible complications. The counselor will also be familiar with local and national support groups.

An endocrinologist and infertility specialist may also be helpful.