What is Angelman syndrome?

What is Angelman syndrome?

Angelman syndrome is a rare, complex neurodevelopmental condition that primarily affects your nervous system. It’s caused by issues with a specific gene called UBE3A.

Your nervous system is your body’s command center. Originating from your brain, it controls your movements, thoughts, behaviors and automatic responses to the world around you.

Characteristic features of Angelman syndrome include:

• Developmental delay that’s often noticeable by six to 12 months of age.
• Intellectual disability.
• No speech or very limited speech.
• Issues with movement and balance (ataxia).
• Seizures.

Children with Angelman syndrome typically have a happy, excitable attitude. They frequently smile, laugh and make hand-flapping motions.

Angelman syndrome is named after Dr. Harry Angelman, an English physician who first described the condition in medical literature in 1965.