Klinefelter syndrome

[klahyn-fel-ter sin-drohm, ‐druhm]

noun

Pathology.

1. an abnormal condition in which at least one extra X chromosome is present in a male: characterized by reduced or absent sperm production, small testicles, and in some cases enlarged breasts. KS

Word History and Origins

Origin of Klinefelter syndrome¹

First recorded in 1945–50; named after Harry Fitch Klinefelter (1912–90), U.S. physician, coauthor of a description of the syndrome

Example Sentences

The three individuals with Klinefelter syndrome lived across very different time periods, but they shared some similarities -- all were slightly taller than average and showed signs of delayed development in puberty.

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Now a chronic fear of running out compounds her worries, and a poor diet aggravates her son’s struggles with autism and Klinefelter syndrome, a genetic disorder that leads to violent outbursts.

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Men with Klinefelter syndrome — who carry an extra X chromosome — are also at increased risk.

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Instead of having one X chromosome and one Y chromosome, as men have, or two X chromosomes, as is typically female, the child had two X’s and a Y - a condition known as Klinefelter syndrome.

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Men born with Klinefelter syndrome, a rare condition where men have an extra X chromosome, may be more susceptible to breast cancer, as well as men who inherit a mutated gene.

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