Disease Directory Cri-du-Chat Syndrome
Neurological

Cri-du-Chat Syndrome

Also known as: 5p deletion syndrome, chromosome 5p minus syndrome, cat cry syndrome

Prevalence

1-5 per 10,000 (Orphanet)

Onset

Neonatal, Infantile

Type

Genetic (chromosomal deletion, usually de novo)

Gene

CTNND2, SEMAPHORIN3E and adjacent genes at 5p15

About Cri-du-Chat Syndrome

Cri-du-Chat syndrome is caused by partial deletion of the short arm of chromosome 5 (5p15), with the size and location of the deletion determining phenotype severity. The name refers to the characteristic high-pitched cat-like cry in infancy caused by laryngeal abnormalities. Core features include severe intellectual disability, delayed motor development, microcephaly, and distinctive facial features. Larger deletions affecting 5p15.2 cause more severe intellectual disability, while very distal deletions may cause milder disease.

Common Clinical Features

High-pitched cat-like cry in infancy Severe intellectual disability Microcephaly Hypotonia Distinctive facial features Delayed motor development Behavioral problems (hyperactivity, aggression)

Clinical Trial Eligibility Tips

What to know before applying to Cri-du-Chat Syndrome trials.

Chromosomal microarray documenting 5p deletion size and region is required — deletion characteristics affect phenotype and trial stratification

Communication assessment using augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tools is relevant for speech-language trials

Behavioral assessments (ABC-C, repetitive behavior scales) are standard baseline tools for behavioral intervention trials

Natural history studies are the primary research pathway — Cri-du-Chat Society maintains a registry for trial matching

Patient Resources

Patient Organization

5p- Society

Visit website ↗

Natural History Registry

5p- Society Patient Registry

Join registry ↗

Orphanet

European reference resource for rare diseases (ORPHA:281)

View on Orphanet ↗

NORD

National Organization for Rare Disorders

Search NORD ↗

Find recruiting Cri-du-Chat Syndrome trials

Search 500,000+ studies from ClinicalTrials.gov, filtered for Cri-du-Chat Syndrome. Updated daily.

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