06/10/2026
is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily affects girls and is most commonly associated with pathogenic variants in the MECP2 gene. Children often appear to develop normally during the first months of life before gradually losing previously acquired skills, particularly purposeful hand movements and spoken communication. This developmental regression is an important feature that distinguishes Rett syndrome from many other developmental conditions.
As the condition progresses, individuals may develop repetitive hand movements, impaired coordination, seizures, breathing abnormalities, sleep difficulties, scoliosis, muscle stiffness, and problems with feeding or swallowing. Although communication and motor abilities can become severely limited, many individuals retain important social and emotional abilities, including meaningful eye contact. The severity and combination of symptoms can vary considerably from one person to another.
There is currently no cure, but care has become increasingly comprehensive. Management may involve neurology, rehabilitation, physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy, nutritional support, seizure management, respiratory monitoring, and cardiac assessment. Genetic confirmation can help establish the diagnosis and provide families with information about recurrence risk and available care. Early recognition of developmental regression is therefore an important step toward appropriate support.