Rett syndrome is a rare genetic disease that causes problems in development and the nervous system, mostly in girls. It is related to autism spectrum disorder. At first, babies with Rett syndrome appear to grow and develop normally. However, between three months and three years old, they stop their development and may even lose some skills. Symptoms include:
- Loss of speech
- Loss of hand movements, such as grasping things
- Compulsive movements such as hand-wringing
- Balance problems
- Respiratory problems
- Behavioral problems
- Learning problems or intellectual disabilities