Treatment of Turner's syndrome

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During childhood and adolescence, girls will visit a paediatric endocrinologist (a specialist in childhood conditions of the hormones and metabolism) at regular intervals.

Many girls have injections of growth hormone; ideally these should start around five years of age to help prevent short stature as an adult. This should continue until growth is complete . There is also the possible use of an anabolic steroid to promote growth.

Oestrogen replacement therapy is usually started at the time of normal puberty, around 12 years, with low but increasing doses, so starting breast development. Oestrogen and progesterone are given a little later to induce a monthly 'period', which is necessary to allow shedding of the lining of the womb and keep it healthy. Oestrogen is also important to prevent osteoporosis.

Babies born with a heart murmur or narrowing of the aorta occasionally need surgery to correct the problem. An expert cardiologist heart expert) will assess and follow up any treatment necessary.

Children are more likely to get middle ear infections. These need to be treated quickly to avoid them leading to deafness. A referral to an ENT (ear, nose, throat) specialist may be necessary.

High blood pressure is quite common in women with TS and should be checked regularly and if necessary treated.

There is also a slightly higher risk of having an under active thyroid or having diabetes, and this too should be regularly checked and treated if necessary.

Regular health checks are very important. Special TS clinics are available in some areas, with access to a variety of specialists. Early preventive care and treatment is very important.

Almost all women are infertile, but pregnancy with donor embryos may be possible.

With appropriate medical treatment and support, a woman with TS can lead a normal, healthy and happy life.