Early Childhood Intervention
This website is a place for families who are facing
challenges pertaining to their child's development and
growth.
It is a place to find answers and practical
suggestions. That's what Early Intervention Support is all
about.
Whether a family has a child with a challenging behavior,
a disability or developmental issue, childhood is short - it
should be savored and enjoyed.
Learn More:
Ask a Therapist
We understand developmental milestones and the challenges
of Special Needs children. We spend a great deal of time
with families understanding the inner workings of childhood
routines and interactions. Ask us about your child today!
Ask a Therapist
Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation
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The CDG disorders are a group of newly discovered metabolic
diseases called Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation.
CDG disorders cause abnormal tissue and organ development affecting
the entire body, especially the function of the central and
peripheral nervous system.
Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation is a recessively inherited
disease, meaning that a child with CDG has inherited two non-working
genes, one from each parent. Currently, there are just 500 cases
identified in the world.
Signs and Symptoms of Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation (CDG)
The symptoms and severity of CDG vary from child to child. Some of the
symptoms become more prominent at different ages. Early signs include:
- Low muscle tone
- Failure to thrive (slow growth)
- Feeding difficulties
- Developmental delay
- Liver disease
- Bleeding tendencies
- Crossed eyes
- Seizures
- Cerebellar hypoplasia (changes in the area of the brain responsible
for balance)
How are Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation Diagnosed?
Most Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation patients can be diagnosed by a
simple blood test. Once CDG is diagnosed, further testing is required to
determine the type of CDG. Currently, scientists have identified 20
different types of CDG.
Prognosis for Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation
Some children with Congenital Disorders of Glycosylation have serious,
life-threatening medical problems during infancy. Individuals with CDG
require expert medical care, often from multiple specialists.
Children and adults with CDG have varying degrees of disability, including
cognitive impairment, speech difficulties, and poor balance and motor
skills. However, many are conversational, with speech impairment, and have
very charming personalities. Most use wheelchairs or walkers for mobility.
Some live at home, while others are in assisted-living settings.
Although there is no current treatment for children with Congenital
Disorders of Glycosylation, early physical, speech, and occupational
therapies are important for them so that they can develop to their fullest
potential.
Where can I Get More Information?
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP)
The CDG Family Network
Attn: Cynthia Wren-Gray, President
P.O. Box 860847
Plano, Texas 75074
Tel: 800-250-5273
E-mail cdgaware@aol.com
Website www.cdgs.com
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Learn More About Early Intervention
Therapy Options
Thankfully, there are many ways to deal with childhood developmental
delays and behaviors. These include in-home services, outpatient (you take
your child to a clinic), inpatient (following injury or surgery) and school
based services. Which type of therapy should you choose?
Visit our Therapy Options
area to learn more.
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