Cri du chat syndrome

Cri du chat syndrome is a rare disorder characterised by a distinctive high-pitched, cat-like cry or call ('cri du chat' meaning cat's cry in French). This cry often persists throughout the person’s lifespan with adults continuing to 'speak' using a monotone, high pitched call.

The effects of cri du chat syndrome are extremely variable, however almost all people with cri du chat have some degree of intellectual disability, speech and language impairment as well as poor motor skills. Some people can have severe intellectual disability, are unable to walk or talk and experience related health problems.

In regards to verbal communication, some people are able to speak using short sentences or a few words while others express themselves more effectively via gestures or sign language.

Symptoms and characteristics

The major symptoms of cri du chat syndrome include:

• intellectual disability ranging from mild to severe
• speech and language impairment varying from mild to severe
• poor motor skills
• short attention span 
• hyperactivity

Statistics

The incidence of cri du chat syndrome is estimated to be as low as 1 in 25,000 to 50,000 births. It is also thought that there are more females than males affected-the approximate ratio being 3 to 2 respectively (Cri Du Chat Support Group of Australia 2007).

Workplace adjustments and solutions

There are solutions and adjustments for the following job requirements:

• attention and memory
• dealing with stress and psychological demands
• interacting with others
• learning and applying knowledge
• maintaining personal presentation appropriate to the work environment
• self care
• managing attendance
• managing emotions at work
• organisation and planning
• problem solving and decision making
• reading and writing
• speech and language

References

Better Health Channel 2007, Cri du chat syndrome, State Government of Victoria, Melbourne, viewed 1 March 2007, http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Cri_du_chat_syndrome?open

Cri Du Chat Support Group of Australia Inc. 2004, Cri du chat Support Group of Australia Inc., Langwarrin, viewed 3 March 2007, http://www.criduchat.asn.au/criduchat/what.htm#Characteristics2

Cri Du Chat Support Group of Australia 2007, What is Cri du Chat Syndrome?, Cri Du Chat Support Group of Australia Inc., Langwarrin, viewed 22 September 2008, http://www.criduchat.asn.au/criduchat/what.htm#Cri%20du%20Chat%20Syndrome