Problems in Klinefelter syndrome

Klinefelter syndrome typically causes a boy's testicles to grow at a slower rate than those of other boys. It also prevents the testicles from producing normal amounts of sperm and the hormone testosterone.

Testosterone affects the way a boy develops both physically and sexually. Low hormone levels and problems with sperm production make it difficult or sometimes impossible for a boy with Klinefelter syndrome to father a child later in life.

Many boys with Klinefelter syndrome show symptoms related to their development of social and language skills. They may have trouble paying attention. A lot of boys learn to talk late or have trouble using words to express their emotions. They also can have trouble with things like learning to spell, read, and write.

Socially, they tend to have quiet personalities. They rarely cause trouble and are often more helpful and thoughtful than other boys. They are often shy and sensitive, and many are less self-confident and less active than other boys their age.

Most boys are not likely to have major health problems, but the condition can bring some other challenges later in life. Klinefelter syndrome puts males at greater risk of breast cancer, some other cancers, and some other diseases like type 2 diabetes, varicose veins, and problems with blood vessels, problems with sexual function, and osteoporosis (weak bones) later in life.

Most boys with Klinefelter syndrome can have sex when they become men, usually with the help of testosterone treatment. However, problems with their testicles prevent them from making enough normal sperm to father children.

The vast majority of men with Klinefelter syndrome are infertile and can't father a child the usual way. Options for becoming natural parents are limited, but fertility researchers are working on new treatments. By the time a child with Klinefelter syndrome is ready to become a dad, there may be new options available related to the extractions of sperm from the testicles.