• Triple X syndrome only occurs in women.female image by Lovrencg from Fotolia.com
  
  Those afflicted by the genetic disorder called Triple X syndrome have an extra X chromosome inside each of the cells of their bodies. The disorder only affects women and is thought to be a random occurrence, usually affecting just one child in the family. It's estimated that one in every 1,000 women have this extra X chromosome.
  
  

Physical Indicators

• There are few physical indicators of Triple X syndrome, which is why most people are not diagnosed until later in life. When physical abnormalities do exist, women might be slightly taller than average, and sometimes have smaller heads. The distance between the eyes can often be larger, and a fold of skin on the inner eyelid can also be an indicator.
  
  

Developmental Signs

• Triple X syndrome can often manifest itself in developmental deficiencies, which means that signs can be seen as a child grows and learns. The disorder can cause muscle development to be slow, i.e., those afflicted take longer to start to crawl and walk and may have poor coordination. Triple X also affects mental development; an IQ can be 10 to 15 points below that of a sibling.
  
  

Behavioral Characteristics

• The net result of the developmental problems sufferers face can often have an adverse effect on their general behaviour. Girls with Triple X often find it hard to interact with other people, making them socially awkward and introverted.
  
  

Diagnosis

• It's very easy to diagnose Triple X syndrome with simple blood tests that show the chromosomal structure. There is no cure for the disorder.