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Prader-Willi Syndrome - Treatment & Management
Overview
Although there is no cure for Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), there are interventions that can significantly help individuals with PWS lead healthier lives. An example is growth hormone (GH) therapy to increase stature, decrease obesity, and increase muscle mass and capacity for physical activity. The management of individuals with PWS is enhanced by a multi-disciplinary approach that includes nutrition, neurology, endocrine, genetics, ophthalmology, psychology, gastroenterology, speech, occupational and physical therapy, and orthopedics. The collaboration of these specialists in a PWS-focused clinic setting offers benefits for patients/families and for developing ongoing improvements in care.General health is usually good in individuals with PWS. If weight is controlled, life expectancy may be near normal and the individual's health and functioning maximized. The constant need for food restriction and behavior management may be stressful for family members. The national Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA) can provide information and support for family members and healthcare providers. Family counseling may also be needed. Adolescents and adults with PWS can function well in group and supported living programs if the necessary diet control and structured environment are provided. Employment in sheltered workshops and other highly structured and supervised settings is successful for many. Residential and vocational providers must be fully informed regarding management of PWS. See Services below.
Primary Care Roles
When specialized multidisciplinary services are available, the Medical Home should collaborate with this team to assure that primary care complements the specialty services and to coordinate services through schools and other community-based services. When no multi-disciplinary clinic is available, the Medical Home may take on the role of helping the family access the various specialists, coordinate that care, and access appropriate community-based services. Managing the care, and particularly the nutrition and behavior, of children with PWS is very challenging - collaborating with and providing support for the family is a key role of the Medical Home provider.Pearls And Alerts
People with PWS may have unusual reactions to standard dosages of medications. Use extreme caution in giving medications that may cause sedation: prolonged and exaggerated responses have been reported. Carefully monitor respiratory function.
Individuals with PWS may present with central adrenal insufficiency. The amount of cortisol they produce may not be adequate during times of stress (e.g., illness, trauma, or surgery). See [de: 2008] and [Stevenson: 2004].
Water intoxication has occurred in relation to use of certain medications with antidiuretic effects and from excess fluid intake alone.
High pain tolerance or lack of typical pain signals is common and may mask the presence of infection or injury. Someone with PWS may not complain of pain until infection is severe or may have difficulty localizing pain. Parent/caregiver reports of subtle changes in condition or behavior should be investigated for medical cause.
Individuals with PWS may be at increased risk of respiratory problems. Hypotonia, weak chest muscles, and sleep apnea are potential complicating factors. Anyone with significant snoring, regardless of age, should have a medical evaluation to look for obstructive sleep apnea. Infants may be at risk for respiratory failure when they are ill due to the increased risk of obstruction. Laboratory evaluation of respiratory function may be necessary.
Vomiting rarely occurs in individuals with PWS , even when it may be helpful. Emetics may be ineffective and repeated doses may cause toxicity. This characteristic is of particular concern in light of hyperphagia and the possible ingestion of uncooked, spoiled, or otherwise unhealthful food. The presence of vomiting may signal a life-threatening illness.
Children with PWS have increased risk of complications from anesthesia, including trauma to the:
- airway,
- oropharynx, or
- lungs due to anatomic and physiologic differences such as:
- narrow airway;
- underdevelopment of the larynx and trachea;
- hypotonia;
- edema; and
- scoliosis.
Abdominal distention or bloating, pain, and vomiting may be signs of life-threatening gastric inflammation or necrosis, which is more common in PWS than in the general population. Rather than presenting with localized pain, there may be a general feeling of unwellness. If an individual with PWS has these symptoms, close observation is needed. An X-ray and an endoscopy exam with biopsy may be necessary to determine the degree of the problem and possible need for emergency surgery.
Temperature dysregulation, resulting in high or low body temperatures, has been reported in PWS without evidence of infection or other known cause. However, hyperthermia may occur during minor illness and in procedures requiring anesthesia. Fever may be absent despite serious infection.
Skin lesions in individuals with PWS, including open sores, caused by skin picking, and easy bruising, may wrongly lead to suspicion of physical abuse. Skin picking is usually in response to an existing lesion or from itching of the face, arms, legs, or rectum. It is best managed by ignoring the behavior, treating and bandaging sores, and providing substitute activities for the hands. Close observation for prolonged bathroom time and other activities should be monitored to avoid self-injurious behavior.
Hyperphagia due to insatiable appetite may lead to life-threatening weight gain, or may lead to stomach necrosis and rupture. Weight gain may be very rapid and occur even on a low-calorie diet. Individuals with PWS must be supervised at all times in all settings where food is accessible.
All individuals with PWS should be considered growth-hormone deficient. The FDA has recognized a diagnosis of PWS as an indication for growth hormone therapy.
In the event of death of an individual with PWS, please contact the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA) Medical Crisis Support (800-926-4797) which maintains a research database of reported deaths. Although most premature deaths are attributable to morbid obesity, cases unrelated to obesity have recently been noted, leading PWSA to recommend a formal investigation of causes of death. PWSA also provides bereavement support to families who have lost children with PWS.
When a child or adult with PWS dies, the family may wish to consider donation of organs for research. PWSA (USA) has established a procedure for Tissue donation to support research on Prader-Willi syndrome to the Brain and Tissue Banks for Developmental Disorders, created by the NIH in cooperation with the University of Maryland and the University of Miami. Prompt action is essential for tissue preservation. Families are advised to contact the closest Brain and Tissue Bank (800-847-1539, Maryland) directly.
Practice Guidelines
Goldstone AP, Holland AJ, Hauffa BP, Hokken-Koelega AC, Tauber M.
Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of Prader-Willi syndrome.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab.
2008;93(11):4183-97.
PubMed abstract
Systems
Endocrine/Metabolism
Growth hormone (GH) is approved for use in PWS for improvement of body composition, height velocity and linear growth, mobility, behavior and quality of life. Growth hormone therapy may increase muscle mass and function and allow a higher daily calorie intake. Psychosocial development may also be improved. Therapy is initiated at a standard dose of approximately 0.3 mg/kg/wk divided as a daily subcutaneous injection. See the Growth Hormone and PWS Policy Statement (PWSA USA) and the updated guidelines for growth hormones. [Wilson: 2003] Recent reports have noted the occurrence of sudden death during initiation of GH, mainly during sleep and possibly related to severe obesity and sleep disordered breathing (SDB) – more studies are needed to clarify the cause of death in these cases. [Grugni: 2008] [Tauber: 2008]
Because individuals with PWS are at risk for sleep apnea, a sleep study is recommended before beginning GH treatment, with a follow-up study 6-8 weeks later. If there is worsening of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), then temporarily stopping the GH is recommended until the cause is understood. Frequently the OSA can be corrected by removing the adenoids and tonsils or lowering the dose of GH (if IGF-1 is abnormally high). Thyroid function and cortisol levels (in AM) should also be tested before starting growth hormone treatment. There has been some discussion about adrenal hypofunction in a subset of PWS individuals.
In most individuals with sleep-disordered breathing due to PWS, GH can actually improve (or at least not worsen) the apnea. [Haqq: 2003] [Miller: 2006] [Festen: 2006] Withholding GH from those with sleep apnea may be detrimental, thus monitoring the child with PWS closely when starting GH to make sure that they do not worsen is the recommended approach.
Diabetes mellitus, type II, has been observed in individuals with PWS, particularly in those individuals with obesity. The risk for diabetes is lowered when weight is reduced. Therefore, blood glucose and insulin levels are periodically checked depending upon the level of obesity and use of growth hormone therapy.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Pediatric Endocrinology (see Services below for relevant providers)
Referral and co-management for growth hormone initiation and treatment, monitoring for diabetes mellitus, and possibly for sex hormone replacement.
Pediatric Genetics (see Services below for relevant providers)
Periodic referrals are recommended for collaboration on ongoing management.
Prader-Willi Clinics (see Services below for relevant providers)
If available, management at a PWS Clinic is recommended.
Gastro-Intestinal & Bowel Function
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. [Butler: 1991] and infants [Butler: 2011]. Failure to thrive may necessitate tube feeding. Infants with PWS should be closely monitored for adequate calorie intake
and appropriate weight gain. Referral to gastroenterology may be indicated. Hyperphagia: In older children, hyperphagia due to insatiable appetite may lead to life-threatening weight gain, which can be very rapid and occur even on a low-calorie diet. Excessive uncontrolled over-eating may lead to stomach necrosis and rupture. To control energy intake, a careful food monitoring program is essential for both children and adults with PWS. [Butler: 1991] Restricted caloric intake with vitamin and calcium supplementation, performed under the close supervision of an experienced dietitian, is generally required from age 2-3 years to minimize excessive weight gain and osteoporosis. Successful weight maintenance in children with PWS who have not been treated with growth hormone has been reported with an intake of 8-11 kcal per cm of height per day, whereas children without PWS require 11-14 kcal per cm per day for adequate growth.
Individuals with PWS must be supervised at all times in all settings where food is accessible. Those who have normal weight have only achieved this because of strict external control of their diet and food intake. Involving the patient, family members, and care providers is critical in developing strategies to cope with the hyperphagia and weight and behavior control issues that are characteristic of PWS. [Goldberg: 2002] Tactics include:
- locking away food,
- keeping limited amounts of food in the home,
- continual close supervision of the patient around food or food-related events,
- providing non-food-related rewards,
- reduction of portion sizes using small plates and bowls,
- allowing participation in menu planning and preparation,
- counting calories, and
- having access to food with fewer calories.
Other: Although they have no known congenital defects involving the gastrointestinal system, children with PWS have decreased sensitivity to gastric fullness and to pain. A decreased pain response may mask the symptoms of gastrointestinal problems such as gastric distention, gastroparesis, and necrosis, which are more common in individuals with PWS. In addition, because vomiting is reduced in children with PWS, they may not respond to eating spoiled or contaminated foods. Children with PWS may present with behavior changes and vague feelings of unwellness that might represent medically urgent gastrointestinal disease. These complaints should be taken seriously by providers. See Emergency alert information for children with PWS.
Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is common in children with PWS and may be particularly problematic in infants due to their hypotonia. See Gastroesophageal reflux (general).
Vomiting and rumination: Commonly reported features of PWS include a decreased ability to vomit and a high prevalence of rumination. [Alexander: 1987] Dental enamel defects due to rumination should be looked for routinely. Rumination may increase in children with strict behavioral food intake programs. See Rumination (eMedicine) for more information.
Constipation is common in children with PWS (>20%). Rectal ulcers, which may occur due to skin picking, can be exacerbated by large stools and constipation. See Constipation treatment (general) for information about the evaluation and treatment of constipation. Treatment of bowel disorders in individuals with PWS often requires ongoing specialized treatment and monitoring with a multi-disciplinary approach to optimize therapy. See also You can poop too program. The following tools may be helpful: Bowel management algorithm (
47 KB)
; Bowel management parent information; Bowel management (general)
(
74 KB)
; Constipation evaluation tool
(
84 KB)
; and Home toileting record
(
49 KB)
.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Pediatric Gastroenterology (see Services below for relevant providers)
A referral to gastroenterology may be helpful for management of failure to thrive, and hyperphagia, severe reflux, or constipation.
Nutrition/Dietary (see Services below for relevant providers)
It is important to involve nutrition expertise on a regular basis for both failure to thrive and the restricted diet necessary for children and adolescents with PWS.
Pediatric Genetics (see Services below for relevant providers)
Periodic visits with genetics are helpful for management of growth issues specific to PWS.
Prader-Willi Clinics (see Services below for relevant providers)
When available, management at a PWS Clinic is preferred.
Mobility/Function/ADLs/Adaptive
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Nutrition/Dietary (see Services below for relevant providers)
It is essential to involve nutritionists familiar with this disorder in diet planning.
Skin & Appearance
Treatment includes keeping the fingernails short, behavior modification, limiting the time spent in the bathroom to reduce opportunities for rectal picking, and providing substitute activities for the hands. Skin and mucosal infections can be managed with topical antibiotics, bandaging, and, if necessary, oral antibiotics. Oral topiramate has been shown to reduce skin picking in some cases. [Shapira: 2002]
The very obese individual is also more prone to fungal and bacterial infections, severe ulceration, and cellulitis, due to the inability to cleanse the skin in deep fat folds. Management includes daily cleansing in these folds and air drying with a heat lamp or hair dryer, and the use of medications for infections.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Pediatric Dermatology (see Services below for relevant providers)
May be helpful for those with more severe skin problems.
Pediatric Gastroenterology (see Services below for relevant providers)
If rectal picking continues, gastroenterology may be helpful to treat underlying conditions, such as constipation.
Cardiology
- overeating and obesity,
- poor dietary habits,
- diabetes,
- excess work of breathing, and
- unexplained elevations of C-reactive protein in individuals with PWS.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Pediatric Cardiology (see Services below for relevant providers)
Helpful in evaluating and managing cardiac risks.
Sleep
- hypoventilation,
- oxygen desaturation during REM sleep,
- sleep apnea,
- nocturnal enuresis, and
- excessive daytime sleepiness and snoring.
Nocturnal enuresis may occur secondary to other underlying sleep problems or as an independent problem. If medical treatment is being considered, for example with DDAVP, start with smaller doses than those used in the general population and gradually increase the dose as needed.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Pediatric Pulmonology (see Services below for relevant providers)
For help in evaluating and managing persistent sleep problems.
Pediatric Otolaryngology (see Services below for relevant providers)
For evaluation and surgery for large adenoids or tonsils in those with obstructive sleep apnea.
Sleep Studies/Polysomnography (see Services below for relevant providers)
For help in evaluating and managing persistent sleep problems
Respiratory
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Pediatric Pulmonology (see Services below for relevant providers)
For evluation and management of difficult respiratory problems.
Musculoskeletal
Individuals with PWS may also present with scoliosis, kyphosis, and/or lordosis. Progression may occur with the increased linear growth during late childhood and adolescence. Treatment with growth hormone or anabolic steroids may exacerbate scoliosis. Scoliosis may compromise lung function and cause discomfort. Children with PWS should be screened regularly for scoliosis and, if scoliosis is present, referred to a pediatric orthopedic surgeon for management. Surgery to correct the scoliosis is sometimes necessary.
Hip dysplasia is observed in approximately 13% of individuals with PWS and should be screened for by the Medical Home provider with referral to an orthopedic surgeon if suspected. Hip ultrasound studies during infancy should be considered.
Osteoporosis is found in up to 50% of adolescents and adults with PWS [Kroonen: 2006] (see the Osteoporosis in children with Prader-Willi syndrome Issue Page) and should be considered in individuals with any fracture that is not consistent with the force of injury. If present, calcium and vitamin D intake should be maximized (see the Calcium and vitamin D (general) Issue Page) and the provider should consider a referral to endocrinology. See also Osteoporosis in individuals with PWS (PWSA USA).
See also Orthopedic concerns in children with PWS from the PWSA (USA).
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Pediatric Orthopedics (see Services below for relevant providers)
Should be involved in the management of children PWS. Regular visits starting soon after diagnosis are helpful for screening and management of hip dysplasia, scoliosis/kyphosis, and orthopedic complications of obesity.
Physical Therapy (see Services below for relevant providers)
Regular visits are recommended to supervise conditioning and manage exercise in children with PWS.
Pediatric Endocrinology (see Services below for relevant providers)
To guide evaluation and treatment of osteoporosis.
Prader-Willi Clinics (see Services below for relevant providers)
When available, management at a PWS Clinic is preferred.
Eyes/Vision
Myopia (near-sightedness) and hyperopia (far-sightedness) are also common findings in children with PWS. Periodic screenings with a pediatric ophthalmologist are recommended throughout childhood.
Oculo-cutaneous albinism type 2 has been shown to be linked to the 15q11-q13 region - individuals with PWS due to a deletion in this area may also exhibit signs of depigmentation. Strabismus and impaired visual acuity may also be features of oculo-cutaneous albinism type 2. [Saadeh: 2007]
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Pediatric Ophthalmology (see Services below for relevant providers)
Referrals to ophthalmology may be needed for management of strabismus and acuity problems beginning in early childhood.
Maturation/Sexual/Reproductive
Over 80% of adolescents and adults with PWS will experience incomplete sexual maturation. Some children show early growth of underarm and pubic hair but then don't progress through puberty normally. Both sexes have good responses to treatment for hormone deficiencies, although side effects have been reported. Males with PWS typically don't progress past midpuberty and make no mature sperm. Testosterone levels are usually low and testosterone replacement beginning early in adolescence is often helpful. Normal levels of testosterone are needed to preserve bone mass and prevent osteoporosis. Testosterone replacement also increases muscle mass and strength. In older males with a small penis, a short course of testosterone can be given to improve appearance and size.
Most females with PWS do not have regular menstrual cycles and if they do menstruate, may have early menopause. Hypoplasia of the labia and/or clitoris in teenage females is common. The use of estrogen replacement therapy for women with PWS is not well established but may help preserve bone mass and reduce osteoporosis.
Fertility has only been documented in a few rare cases. Sexually active individuals should be counseled regarding the risk of pregnancy and the risk of having a child with PWS (50%, except when the mutation is due to maternal disomy).
Sexuality needs to be discussed with adolescents with disabilities and their parents in an effort to address common issues that may include:
- the assumption that teens with disabilities do not need this information,
- the lack of sex education specific to people with disabilities,
- motor impairments that may make sexual function difficult, e.g., condom use,
- the presence of intellectual impairment that might complicate the imparting and understanding of sex education material,
- concerns about sexual exploitation in this population, and
- body image concerns on the part of the adolescents.
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.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Pediatric Endocrinology (see Services below for relevant providers)
May be helpful for individuals with PWS with delayed puberty for consideration, initiation, and management of sex hormone therapy and for hypogonadism.
Gynecology (Ped/Adol, Special Needs) (see Services below for relevant providers)
To guide female patients with delayed puberty.
Pediatric Urology (see Services below for relevant providers)
For evaluation and management of males with crypto-orchidism and/or a small penis.
Dental
- Cognitive and fine motor skills may limit the child's ability to perform brushing and flossing. Early emphasis on brushing and flossing is important.
- Behavioral and health issues (e.g., sleep apnea, congenital heart disease) may increase the difficulty of dental visits and increase the risks of using sedation in the dental setting.
- soft dental enamel making it easier for caries to develop. Special toothbrushes can be used that are less abrasive and help maintain the enamel and improve oral hygiene.
- tendency to grind their teeth and because sugar intake may be large.
- overproduction of saliva that results in thick, crusted deposits in the corners of the mouth and difficulty for the saliva to coat and protect the teeth. Products to increase and somewhat thin the saliva are available.
- Discussing the need for routine dental care with families and ensuring that the child and family have been instructed on dental hygiene and fluoride supplementation. The CDC's page My Water's Fluoride provides information about fluoride levels in local water sources.
- Helping families identify an appropriate dentist and/or funding. Dental check-ups are recommended by age 1 and then every 6 months.
- Offering the family information about dental care specific to PWS. Ensure that families and dental care providers are aware of medical issues that may impact care (e.g., need for bacterial prophylaxis, sedation risks).
- Monitoring general oral hygiene and dental health at well child visits and discussing issues with families as they arise. If signs of periodontal disease are evident, refer to a dental provider as-soon-as possible; periodontal disease can be rapidly progressive.
- Helping the child, teen, and family manage halitosis, which may result in societal exclusion. It may improve with simple interventions such as tongue brushing, mouth washes, breath fresheners, and better dental hygiene or may require evaluation for medical issues, including chronic sinusitis, gastro-esophageal reflux, drooling, and periodontal disease.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Please consult your local dentist for input, recommendations, and follow-up for oral pathology and hygiene.
General Dentistry for CSHCN (see Services below for relevant providers)
Particularly when pediatric dentists are not available.
Pediatric Dentistry (see Services below for relevant providers)
Often have special interest and skill in the care of children with special health care needs.
Development (general)
Sign language, picture communication boards, and augmentative communication devices should be considered for individuals with verbal communication problems. Referrals should be made as early as possible to speech and language pathologists. Aiding communication may help with behavior problems. See also the Augmentative Communication (general) Issue Page.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Speech/Language Therapy (see Services below for relevant providers)
In addition to speech/language therapy, speech therapists can initiate augmentative communication when needed.
Mental Health/Behavior
Family support and anticipatory guidance for developmental delays and medical problems should be provided. Transitions and life changes are easier if the person with PWS is prepared for them, for example by allowing the child with PWS to visit a new school and meet his/her prospective teachers. Children with PWS should have a clear idea of expectations and the limits set for them, including those related to participation in social activities and interactions with other children.
Co-management with psychology and/or psychiatry may be important if simple measures are ineffective. The choice of psychotropic medication is the same as in typical patients with psychiatric diagnoses. Because many individuals with PWS may respond differently, dosing should start low and be titrated upward based on response.
Mood stabilizers have been used successfully for treating mood disorders and severe impulse control. Valproate and lithium are well tolerated at typical doses. Carbamazepine and oxcarbazepine should be used with care because of the increased risk for hyponatremia. Individuals with PWS will sometimes ingest large quantities of flavored beverages or water making them more susceptible to hyponatremia than non-PWS subjects.
Serotonin reuptake inhibitors have induced mood activation in some individuals with PWS causing worsening of behavioral problems or resulting in psychosis. The worsening behavior after an initial favorable response to medication may cause some physicians to increase the dose which further complicates treatment. However, when monitored closely, this class of medications can effectively treat OCD and depression in PWS individuals.
It is important to monitor all medications that may affect eating behavior and weight gain. In well-controlled environments, neuroleptics, atypical neuroleptics, valproic acid, and lithium have been used effectively without discernable change in food seeking behavior. [Forster: 2008] In severe cases, the child may need to be admitted to a facility that has experience in dealing with behavioral issues secondary to underlying medical problems.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Child Psychology (see Services below for relevant providers)
For help in managing the behavior problems of children with PWS and for family counseling.
Child Psychiatry (see Services below for relevant providers)
For help with severe behavior problems requiring medical treatment.
Learning/Education/Schools
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) should be treated if present. Co-management with a child psychiatrist may be indicated if medication is required.
Subspecialist Collaborations and Other Resources
Child Psychology (see Services below for relevant providers)
For help with educational programming and for behavior management programs.
Neuropsychology (see Services below for relevant providers)
For evaluationa and for help with educational programming.
Child Psychiatry (see Services below for relevant providers)
For medication management of ADHD if needed.
Family
Transitions
- Planning should begin well before the patient will be transitioned.
- Planning should take medical problems and learning disabilities into account.
- Transition planning should be person- and family-centered and take into account cultural, ethnic, and spiritual values. Economic resources of the family need to be considered.
- The overall goals of the youth should be considered. Goals for the future should include measurable outcomes. Transitions should be presented as positive changes in the person's life.
- All members of the health care team, current and future, should agree on the overall plan and how to achieve the outcomes desired.
- Medical management should be planned so there is no interruption in care and so that the patient and family are aware of potential changes in available resources. Medicaid support typically ends at age 19 and social security financial support after age 18.
- Two key members of the transition team are a nutritionist who is familiar with the unique problems of the condition and past
management plans and
a social worker who can provide information about appropriate medical care and financial resources for adults.
Resources
Information & Support
For Professionals
New Medical Alert Info (PWSA USA)
(
1.5 MB)
SSI guide for children with PWS (PWSA USA)
Orthopedic concerns in children with PWS from the PWSA (USA)
Osteoporosis in individuals with PWS (PWSA USA)
Central Adrenal Insufficiency (PWSA USA)
Postoperative Guidelines (PWSA USA)
Growth Hormone Consensus Statement (PWSA USA)
(
64 KB)
Recommendations for Evaluation of Breathing Abnormalities (PWSA USA)
For Parents and Patients
Support
Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA)
A strong national organization of families and professionals, PSWA (USA) offers a toll-free helpline, a bimonthly newsletter
and numerous publications about PWS, a World-Wide-Web page, and annual family conference and scientific meeting, and chapters
throughout the country to provide local family support and advocacy.
General
SSI guide for children with PWS (PWSA USA)
Utah Prader-Willi Syndrome Association
Provides families and professionals with a network of support, resources, and information to promote awareness of the syndrome
and raise funds that will directly benefit Utahn’s with PWS.
Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA)
A strong national organization of families and professionals, PSWA (USA) offers a toll-free helpline, a bimonthly newsletter
and numerous publications about PWS, a World-Wide-Web page, and annual family conference and scientific meeting, and chapters
throughout the country to provide local family support and advocacy.
Food and Behavior in PWS (Pittsburgh Partnership)
providing information to providers and families regarding food security and other aspects of behavior in individuals with
PWS
Practice Guidelines
Goldstone AP, Holland AJ, Hauffa BP, Hokken-Koelega AC, Tauber M.
Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of Prader-Willi syndrome.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab.
2008;93(11):4183-97.
PubMed abstract
Written by an open international multidisciplinary expert group that met in October 2006 in France with 37 invited speakers/session
chairs and 85 additional participants. The guidelines were developed from published evidence-based data, unpublished data
from personal experience, previous National and International PWS Conferences and Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA)
Clinical Advisory Groups.
McCandless SE.
Clinical report—health supervision for children with Prader-Willi syndrome.
Pediatrics.
2011;127(1):195-204.
PubMed abstract
Tools
Bowel management (general)
(
74 KB)
General information on bowel function and management of constipation for families and providers.
Bowel management algorithm
(
47 KB)
Algorithm for management of chronic constipation developed in collaboration with pediatric gastroenterology.
Constipation evaluation tool
(
84 KB)
Provides a format for evaluation of chronic constipation in children.
Home toileting record
(
49 KB)
An easy-to-use form for keeping track of a child's toileting habits.
Services
Early Intervention Programs
See all Early Intervention Programs services providers (38) in our database.
General Dentistry for CSHCN
See all General Dentistry for CSHCN services providers (117) in our database.
Gynecology (Ped/Adol, Special Needs)
See all Gynecology (Ped/Adol, Special Needs) services providers (26) in our database.
Health Insurance/Funding, Transition
See all Health Insurance/Funding, Transition services providers (47) in our database.
Mental Health Clinics, Public
See all Mental Health Clinics, Public services providers (44) in our database.
Pediatric Gastroenterology
See all Pediatric Gastroenterology services providers (2) in our database.
Pediatric Genetics
Medical Genetics,
more info...
100 N Mario Capecchi Dr
Salt Lake City, UT 84113
Phone: 801-231-3599
Fax: 801-585-7252
http://healthcare.utah.edu/pediatrics/Genetics/index.php
See all Pediatric Genetics services providers (3) in our database.
Pediatric Pulmonology
Pediatric Pulmonology,
more info...
100 N Mario Capecchi Dr
Salt Lake City, UT 84133
Phone: 801-213-3599
http://healthcare.utah.edu/pediatrics/Pulmonary/index.php
See all Pediatric Pulmonology services providers (5) in our database.
Prader-Willi Clinics
Prader-Willi Syndrome Clinic ,
more info...
44 Mario Capecchi Drive
Salt Lake City, UT 84114
Phone: 801-712-0501
Toll Free Phone: 800-829-8200
http://www.health.utah.gov/cshcn/index.html
SSI, Supplemental Security Income
See all SSI, Supplemental Security Income services providers (8) in our database.
Sleep Studies/Polysomnography
See all Sleep Studies/Polysomnography services providers (10) in our database.
Social & Recreational Opportunities
See all Social & Recreational Opportunities services providers (34) in our database.
For other services related to this condition, browse our Services categories or search our database.
Helpful Articles
PubMed search on Prader-Willi syndrome: articles over the last 10 years
Butler MG, Lee PDK, Whitman, BY; ed.
Management of Prader-Willi Syndrome.
3rd ed. New York, NY: Springer Verlag Inc.;
2006.
0387253971
Overview of the syndrome and natural history; diagnosis and genetics; medical physiology; and treatment and multidisciplinary
management.
de Lind van Wijngaarden RF, Otten BJ, Festen DA, Joosten KF, de Jong FH, Sweep FC, Hokken-Koelega AC.
High prevalence of central adrenal insufficiency in patients with Prader-Willi syndrome.
J Clin Endocrinol Metab.
2008;93(5):1649-54.
PubMed abstract
Meaney FJ, Butler MG.
Craniofacial variation and growth in the Prader-Labhart-Willi syndrome.
Am J Phys Anthropol.
1987;74(4):459-64.
PubMed abstract
Butler MG, Hanchett JM, Thompson T.; Butler MG, Lee PDK, Whitman BY (eds.).
Clincal findings and natural history of Prader-Willi syndrome. In: Management of Prader-Willi Syndrome.
3rd ed. ed. New York: Springer Press;
2007.
Cassidy SB, Driscoll DJ.
Prader-Willi syndrome.
Eur J Hum Genet.
2009;17(1):3-13.
PubMed abstract
Schrander-Stumpel CT, Sinnema M, van den Hout L, Maaskant MA, van Schrojenstein Lantman-de Valk HM, Wagemans A, Schrander
JJ, Curfs LM.
Healthcare transition in persons with intellectual disabilities: general issues, the Maastricht model, and Prader-Willi syndrome.
Am J Med Genet C Semin Med Genet.
2007;145C(3):241-7.
PubMed abstract
Butler MG.
Prader-Willi syndrome: current understanding of cause and diagnosis.
Am J Med Genet.
1990;35(3):319-32.
PubMed abstract
Butler MG, Lee PDK, Whitman BY.
Management of Prader-Willi Syndrome.
3rd ed ed. New York, NY: Springer-Verlag Publisher;
2010.
Authors
| Authors: | Merlin G. Butler MD, PHD, 8/2008 Judy L. Welch RN, BSN, 8/2008 |
| Contributing Authors: | Mary Riske RN, MS, 8/2008 Robin Troxell MS, CGC, 8/2008 Ralph Vogel PhD, RN, 8/2008 |
| Reviewing Authors: | Alan Rope MD, 11/2008 Kyna Byerly MS, CGC, 8/2008 |
| Content Last Updated: | 1/2011 |
Funding/Support
This module was developed in partnership with the Heartland Regional Genetics and Newborn Screening Collaborative Heartland Regional Genetics and Newborn Screening Collaborative and was funded in part by a Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) cooperative agreement (U22MC03962).We appreciate the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association (USA) for their outstanding support of individuals with PWS and their families and for the information they provide on their website – www.pwsausa.org – to which we have provided several links within the Diagnosis Module.
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