Intersexuality - The Intersexual Spectrum

Causes of Intersexuality - Chromosomes

Males: Klinefelter Syndrome

Treatment and Support

Treatment
The chromosomal combination of XXY is diagnosed by means of a blood test (i.e. a chromosomal analysis called “karyotyping”). Today, the dagnosis is sometimes made before birth as a result of prenatal tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS). However, in most cases the condition is discovered much later when the boy enters school or reaches puberty. Still other cases are diagnosed in adulthood, for example when a doctor looks for the cause of a man’s infertility. While the condition as such cannot be “cured”, many of its possible symptoms can be treated. For example, once a boy has been diagnosed and reaches puberty, regular injections of the “male” hormone testosterone can help in growing facial hair and in developing a stronger and more muscular body.

Support Groups
In the past, persons with Klinefelter syndrome and their families often felt isolated and found it difficult to learn more about the condition. However, in recent years, a number of support groups have organized. They will gladly supply additional information as well as links to other related sites. For example these groups (click on logos):

American Association for Klinefelter Syndrome Information & Support    Klinefelter Syndrome Support Group