List of X-Linked Diseases & Sickle Cell Anemia

Sex-linked disorders, also known as X-linked diseases, refer to defects in the X chromosome that are inherited and cause certain diseases. According to MedlinePlus, X-linked diseases typically are most severe in males as they only have one X chromosome while females have two X chromosomes 2. Diseases such as sickle cell anemia can also be inherited through autosomal (non-sex) chromosomes 1. X-linked diseases and sickle cell anemia are managed in various ways 1.

Fragile X-Syndrome

Fragile X-syndrome is an X-linked disease that serves as the most common form of mental retardation in males, says MedlinePlus 23.

Specific symptoms of fragile X syndrome include hyperactivity, a large body size, a prominent jaw with a large forehead or ears, large testicles and avoidance of eye contact 3.

Specifically, fragile X-syndrome is due to an alteration in the FMR1 gene on the X chromosome 3.

Unfortunately, no treatment exists to manage fragile X-syndrome but education and training can be beneficial to fragile X-syndrome sufferers 3.

Becker's Muscular Dystrophy

MedlinePlus says that Becker's muscular dystrophy is a condition in which the leg and pelvic muscles become weakened over time. MedlinePlus says that Becker's muscular dystrophy affects three to six out of every 100,000 males in the United States.

Specific symptoms of Becker's muscular dystrophy include fatigue, a loss of balance, trouble walking as a result of leg or pelvic muscle weakness, frequent falls and loss of muscle mass. This disease can also lead to a lack of coordination, loss of balance and difficulty breathing. Symptoms of Becker's muscular dystrophy typically occur in people who are 12-years-old or older.

No treatment exists for Becker muscular dystrophy sufferers. Steroid medications can ease the symptoms, however, while physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and wheelchairs and leg braces can help with mobility.

Sickle Cell Anemia

Symptoms of sickle cell anemia include:

• low levels of red blood cells (anemia)
  
• fatigue
  
• shortness of breath
  
• yellowing of the skin
  
• bone
  
• chest
  
• stomach or joint pain 1