Prader-Willi Syndrome Summary Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder. It causes poor muscle tone, low levels of sex hormones and a constant feeling of hunger. The part of the brain that controls feelings of fullness or hunger does not work properly in people with PWS. They overeat, leading to obesity. Babies with PWS are usually floppy, with poor muscle tone, and have trouble sucking. Boys may have undescended testicles. Later, other signs appear. These include Short stature Poor motor skills Weight gain Underdeveloped sex organs Mild intellectual and learning disabilities There is no cure for PWS. Growth hormone, exercise, and dietary supervision can help build muscle mass and control weight. Other treatments may include sex hormones and behavior therapy. Most people with PWS will need specialized care and supervision throughout their lives. NIH: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Clinical Trials ClinicalTrials.gov: Prader-Willi Syndrome National Institutes of Health Resources Genes and Disease: Prader-Willi Syndrome National Center for Biotechnology Information Genetics Home Reference: Prader-Willi syndrome National Library of Medicine How Do Health Care Providers Diagnose Prader-Willi Syndrome? National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Prader-Willi Syndrome Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS): Condition Information National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS): Other FAQs National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Prader-Willi Syndrome: Frequently Asked Questions Prader-Willi Syndrome Association What Are the Symptoms of Prader-Willi Syndrome? National Institute of Child Health and Human Development What Are the Treatments for Prader-Willi Syndrome? National Institute of Child Health and Human Development What Causes Prader-Willi Syndrome? National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Patient Handouts Prader-Willi syndrome Journal Articles Prader-Willi Syndrome
