Treatment for Klinefelter syndrome

There is no way to change the XXY condition if a boy is born with it, but treatments can help relieve some of the symptoms. As with many conditions, beginning treatment early can greatly increase its effectiveness.

Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) works by increasing a boy's testosterone levels into the normal range. Additional testosterone can help a boy with Klinefelter syndrome develop bigger muscles and a deeper voice, as well as promote the growth of the penis and facial and body hair. It can also help improve bone density and reduce the growth of the boy's breasts. Testosterone therapy cannot increase the size of a boy's testicles or prevent or reverse infertility, however.

Educational support services can help boys and teens with Klinefelter syndrome keep pace in school. Many benefit from extra assistance when it comes to schoolwork. If your son has Klinefelter syndrome, let his teachers and school nurse know about his condition and see what kind of support is available. He may be eligible for an individualized education plan (IEP) or 504 education plan, which both can provide accommodations for kids with special needs.

Speech therapy and physical therapy can help boys with Klinefelter syndrome learns to speak, read, and write better, or improve muscle strength and coordination. Other forms of therapy include behavioral, mental health, and occupational therapy. These can help improve low self-confidence, shyness, and delayed social development.