Minor chromosome variants in child psychiatric patients

Abstract

The frequency of minor chromosome variants, as detected by conventional chromosome analysis, was examined among 1,289 child psychiatric patients, of whom one-fourth had only behavioral problems and three-fourths had congenital abnormalities and more severe mental disorders. There was no more than random association between prominent satellites, prominent secondary constrictions or a long Y chromosome, and congenital abnormalities or more severe mental disorders. The frequencies of these chromosome variants were affected by race as has been shown in previous studies. These findings do not support the evidence for a developmental effect of minor variants in man.

Chromosomal variants in mentally retarded and normal men

“…The frequency of the 16qh-variant was not found by other investigators to be increased in retarded subjects. We did not find the increased length of the Y chromosome in our patients which was observed by Fundenburk et al (1978).…”

“…However, the increased frequency of 9qh+ is in agreement with the results of Lubs et al (1977), who found this increase in retarded black patients. Fundenburk et al (1978) found an increased frequency of 9h+ in subjects who were moderately retarded, autistic, or had chronic behaviour disorders; however, this could be explained as chance association only. Tharapel & Summitt (1978) found an increased frequency of 9qh-k in black patients but not in whites.…”