Ataxia-telangiectasia has several names. It is also called Boder-Sedgwick syndrome and Louis-Bar syndrome. Ataxia Telangiectasia is an immunodeficiency disorder. Children are born with it, but it may not be apparent that they have this disorder until they are about 2 years of age. There some distinctive features and signs that you can look for that can help you identify Telangiectasia Ataxia in your child.
Instructions
1. Look for developmental delay. The first sign that your child has this disease is a delay in development, delay in motor skill, speech problems, and inability to stay balanced. The reason your child will have trouble in these area's is because the disease attacks the part of the brain that controls those parts of your child's development.
2. Look for tiny, red spider veins. These usually occur later on in life, and begin at the corners of the eyes. The spider veins can also be seen on your child's ears and cheeks. Not all patients get these spider veins, but it is common enough and is a very big identifier.
3. Look for a low immune system. Ataxia Telangiectasia is known for it's low t-cells. Patients will get several respiratory infections and can also develop Leukemia or Lymphoma. Actually, cancer is quite common in with this disease.
4. Look for a sensitivity to radiations and gamma-rays. Patients are extremely sensitive to x-rays and any other type of radiation.
5. Get a blood test. Doctor's know what to look for in a blood test to determine if your child has this disease. For example, they know the t-cells are going to be low. Together with the symptoms your child is experiencing and the blood test results, the doctor can make the diagnosis.
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