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Prader-Willi Syndrome

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic condition that can happen by chance or can run in families. Individuals with a family history of this condition may be at risk to have a child with PWS or a related condition called Angelman syndrome.

Symptoms

• Feeding difficulties/poor weight gain in infancy
• Food obsession and obesity starting around 1 year of age
• Mental retardation or learning disabilities
• Hypogonadism - undesceded testes or small penis in males or absent menses in females

Causes/Risk Factors

• Family history of Prader-Willi or Angelman syndrome
• Chromosome 15 abnormality

Genetic Test/Carrier Screen

The following tests may be appropriate based on your personal and/or family history.

• Carrier Testing
  
  • Blood draw
• Prenatal Testing
  
  • Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
  • Amniocentesis

Schedule an Appointment

To speak with a board-certified genetic counselor about your risks for this disease:

• Schedule genetic counseling appointment online
• Or call 1-800-975-4819
• Send email

Learn More

Genetics Home Reference

Support Groups

Prader-Willi Syndrome Association