What is the life expectancy of a person with cri du chat syndrome?

31% of individuals with Cri du Chat syndrome had a score on this assessment indicative of autism . The rate of autism in Cri du Chat syndrome is similar to that reported for autism in the wider intellectual disability population (up to 40%).

The survival for children with cri du chat is generally good. Most syndrome related deaths occur within the first year of life. Several children have lived to be over 50 years of age . Genetic counseling is recommended for affected individuals and their families.

Children with Cri du Chat syndrome usually have some motor delay, especially in walking . Some children walk as early as 2 years, but others can take up to 6 years because of low muscle tone. Some might never walk. Children with Cri du Chat syndrome can have mild to severe intellectual disability.

A small percentage of infants with cri-du-chat syndrome are born with serious organ defects (especially heart or kidney defects) or other life-threatening complications that can result in death. Most fatal complications occur before the child’s first birthday.