Angelman Syndrome

Angelman syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by severe congenital mental retardation, unusual facial appearance, and muscular abnormalities.

Symptoms of Angelman syndrome include unstable jerky gait, hand flapping, unusually happy demeanor, developmental delay, lack of or diminished speech, and microcephaly (small head). Epilepsy may develop in the early years of life, however it may decrease with age. Patients may also have balance problems.

Is there any treatment?

There is no standard course of treatment for Angelman syndrome. Physical therapy and adaptive devices may help patients with jerky gait. Early language evaluation and intervention is often recommended. Anticonvulsant medications may be prescribed for epilepsy.

What is the prognosis?

Most individuals with Angelman syndrome will have mental delay, severe speech limitations, and some type of gait abnormality. Patients may have improvement of symptoms with therapy.

From the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health

The Facts About Angelman Syndrome

(by the Angelman Syndrome Foundation, Inc.)
http://www.angelman.org
A brief explanation of Angelman Syndrome.

What is Angelman Syndrome?

http://membres.lycos.fr/angelman/index-2.htm

Angelman Syndrome is not a disease, but a neurogenetic condition that cannot be cured, due to an anomaly on the maternal side of chromosome 15 (the half inherited from the mother).

Angelman Syndrome
Written by Stephen M. Edelson, Ph.D.
http://www.autism.org/angel.html
Angelman Syndrome is not considered a subtype of autism, but individuals suffering from this disorder exhibit many behaviors characteristic of autism. They are also sometimes given a secondary diagnosis of autism.

Army of Angels
http://www.armyofangels.org/
This site is here to do one of many small parts towards making the general public more aware of Angelman Syndrome in particular and genetic disorders in general. It is hoped that you will leave this site with a little more understanding of what Angelman Syndrome is and what you, a member of the global community, can help to do about it.

Education & Classroom Accommodations

Angelman Syndrome Handout on Education

http://www.angelman.org/

Here are a few educational ideas for your child. This is a simple run down of your options, and each should be investigated thoroughly in your area. Other parents can be a great source of information and offer a wide range of opinions, so ask questions.

Exceptional Parent Magazine

http://www.eparent.com/

LD Online

http://www.ldonline.org/

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Michigan Resources, Support Groups, Listservs & Websites

Michigan Parents of Children with Angelman Syndrome
Having kids with Angelman Syndrome is an ongoing battle sometimes and it really helps having a shoulder to lean on (or cry on) with someone who understands. All the parents I have spoken to have been more than happy to help, so if you need advice or anything please e-mail me and we will work on it!
Emilie Mullins - Click here to E-mail Emilie
Kathy Leonard - Click here to E-mail Kathy

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National Resources & Websites

Nina Foundation

http://www.nina-foundation.org/

Angelman Syndrome Foundation, Inc.
http://www.angelman.org/
Information about Angelman Syndrome and the Foundation for doctors and families.

Australian Angelman Syndrome Association

http://www.angelmansyndrome.org/

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Articles Related to this Disability

Information is not available at this time. Would you like to see your information here? Let us know!

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Medical Information

NINDS Angelman Syndrome Information Page
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/health_and_medical/disorders/angelman.htm
From the: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

How Do You Test for Angelman Syndrome?
http://www.armyofangels.org/angeltest.htm
This is a list of the five most common methods of testing for Angelman
Syndrome.

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Books and Videos

The Man Who Would Be Dad

by Hogan Hilling
http://www.eplibrary.com/angleman/

This story begins when Hogan and his wife's second child, Wesley, was born with Angelman Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder. In this book the author confronts the question of "What is a real dad?" The answers are loud and clear; caring, playful, affectionate, and fully committed. In simple, eloquent, and knowing stories, the author, lets the reader understand that when it comes to raising kids, men only have one choice --be involved! it is not a chore, but a choice made out of love.

Angel Lady
by Ashleigh Evans

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0964941929/expertparentscom/104-6535244-4763104

A children's book about a child with Angelman Syndrome. Takes four to six weeks from Amazon.

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