Turner syndrome is a disorder caused by the loss of genetic material from one of the sex chromosomes.
Humans normally have a total of 46 chromosomes (which are tiny, DNA-containing elements) that are present in every cell of the body. DNA encodes genes, which specify all the proteins that make up the body and control its functions.
In humans, there are 23 matched pairs of chromosomes in every cell. Each cell contains 22 pairs of chromosomes called autosomes that are the same in males and females. The remaining pair of chromosomes, the X- and Y-chromosomes, are not shaped similarly, and thus are not matched in the same way as the autosomes.
The X- and Y-chromosomes are called sex chromosomes. They are responsible for the difference in development between males and females. A Y-chromosome contains genes responsible for testis development; and the presence of a X-chromosome paired with a Y-chromosome will determine male development. On the other hand, two X-chromosomes are required for normal ovarian development in females.
As a chromosomal condition, there is no "cure" for Turner syndrome. However much can be done to minimize the symptoms. For example:
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