Cri-du-chat Syndrome

Also known as: cri du chat syndrome, cat’s cry syndrome, 5p minus syndrome

What is cri-du-chat syndrome?

Cri-du-chat syndrome is a rare genetic condition. It gets its name from the infant’s high-pitched cry, which sounds like a cat. Other symptoms include low birth weight, slow growth, downward slanting eyes, intellectual disability, webbed fingers or toes, abnormal ears, skin tags, small head, wide-set eyes and more.

What might cause cri-du-chat syndrome?

Cri-du-chat syndrome is caused by a missing portion of the short arm (“p” arm”) of chromosome 5. What can you do about it? Cri-du-chat syndrome will typically be recognized at birth. Children with Cri du Chat benefit from regular follow-up with a clinical geneticist who can help provide resources and education for the child and the family. 

How can it be treated?

Cri-du-chat syndrome will typically be recognized at birth. Children with Cri du Chat benefit from regular follow-up with a clinical geneticist who can help provide resources and education for the child and the family. 

When should you seek medical attention?

If you are concerned that your child has features of this condition, you should discuss them with your health care provider so that appropriate testing and evaluation can be completed. Clinical Genetics Physicians

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Reviewed by: Katherin Schain, M.S., CGC

This page was last updated on: September 16, 2025 12:51 PM