Chromosome 15q duplication

People with chromosome 15q duplication have an extra (duplicate) copy of the genetic material located on the long arm (q) of chromosome 15 in each cell. The features associated with the condition vary significantly from person to person depending on the size and location of the duplication and which genes are involved. In many cases, this duplication occurs sporadically as a random event when the egg or the sperm is made. There is nothing that a person can do to cause or prevent this duplication from happening.

There are several different specialized tests that can be used to diagnose a chromosome 15q duplication. These include:

• Karyotype - a karyotype is a laboratory test that produces an image of a person's chromosomes. This test can be used to diagnose large duplications.
• FISH - a laboratory technique that is used to detect and locate a specific DNA sequence on a chromosome. During FISH, a chromosome is exposed to a small DNA sequence called a probe that has a fluorescent molecule attached to it. The probe sequence binds to its corresponding sequence on the chromosome. This test can be used in combination with karyotyping for duplications that are too small to be seen on karyotype, alone. However, FISH is only useful if the person ordering the test suspects there is a duplication of a specific region of 15q.
• Array CGH - a technology that detects duplications that are too small to be seen on karyotype.

Many cases of chromosome 15q duplication occur sporadically as a random event during the formation of the egg or sperm. In this case, a person would have no family history of the condition but could pass the duplication on to children.

Occasionally, this duplication is passed down from parent to child. However, the symptoms and severity can vary significantly between family members and in some cases, the parent may have no obvious features of the condition.

The long-term outlook (prognosis) for people with chromosome 15q duplication varies from person to person. The severity of the condition and the associated signs and symptoms largely depend on the size and location of the duplication and the genes involved.

Because chromosome 15q duplication affects many different systems of the body, medical management is often provided by a team of doctors and other healthcare professionals. Treatment for this duplication varies based on the signs and symptoms present in each person. For example, children with delayed motor milestones (i.e. walking) may be referred for physical or occupational therapy. Speech therapy may be recommended for children with delayed speech. Certain medications may be prescribed to treat seizures. Special education services are often necessary for children with intellectual disability. Surgery may be required to treat certain physical abnormalities such as cleft palate or congenital heart defects, if present.

Please speak to your healthcare provider if you have any questions about your personal medical management plan.

Unique is a source of information and support to families and individuals affected by rare chromosome disorders. Click on the link to view information about duplications of 15q.