My patient’s NIPT is positive for XXY (Klinefelter syndrome). What does this mean?
Your patient’s NIPT result suggests the presence of an extra copy of the X sex chromosome. NIPT is a screening test; false positives, though rare, can occur. The actual chance for the pregnancy to have XXY syndrome depends on many factors, including the patient’s clinical and family history.
Next steps to consider: You should discuss the results and the potential clinical implications with your patient. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine state, “All women with a positive cell-free DNA test result should have further detailed counseling and testing and should have a diagnostic procedure before any irreversible action is taken.” Confirmation prior to birth can also help with pregnancy and neonatal management.
What is XXY syndrome?
XXY syndrome is a condition that is caused by a male having an extra copy of the X sex chromosome (two copies of the X chromosome and one copy of the Y chromosome rather than the usual one copy of each).
What are the features of XXY syndrome?
XXY syndrome is likely to result in live birth. Males with XXY syndrome have variable phenotypes. Some of the common features of XXY syndrome include learning disabilities, delayed speech and language development, taller stature, hypogonadism, and risk of infertility.
What is the prevalence of this condition?
Approximately 1 in 600 males are born with XXY syndrome. This condition usually happens by chance and can be associated with advanced maternal age.
What testing should be considered?
- Specialized genetic tests such as karyotyping, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), qPCR, and microarray are available to confirm the presence of XXY syndrome.
- These confirmatory tests are generally performed on cells from chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis during pregnancy, on cord blood or peripheral blood sample after the baby is born, or on products of conception (POC) in case of a miscarriage.
- Ultrasound evaluation is not expected to be useful in aiding with prenatal diagnosis of XXY, as ultrasound is usually normal with XXY. A normal ultrasound cannot exclude this condition.