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Updated: Aug 4, 2026

Chromosome Preparation From Cultured Cells
Published on: January 28, 2014
The syndrome of ring chromosome 12
Insights
A rare genetic condition, ring chromosome 12, was identified in a 13-month-old girl experiencing failure to thrive and developmental delay. This chromosomal abnormality (46,XX,r(12)(p13q24)) is linked to her significant growth and developmental issues.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Failure to thrive (FTT) and global developmental delay are critical indicators of underlying genetic or metabolic disorders in infants.
- Dysmorphic features can provide crucial clues for diagnosing rare genetic syndromes.
Observation:
- A 13-month-old female presented with severe FTT, delayed development, and distinctive physical characteristics.
- Key dysmorphic features included epicanthal folds, low-set ears, a high-arched palate, short neck, clinodactyly, and a single palmar crease.
Findings:
- Karyotype analysis revealed a modal chromosome number of 46 with a ring chromosome 12 abnormality: 46,XX,r(12)(p13q24).
- The patient's growth parameters were significantly below age norms, with weight-age at 1 month and length-age at 3 months.
Implications:
- Ring chromosome 12 is a rare chromosomal disorder associated with significant developmental and growth impairments.
- Accurate genetic diagnosis, such as identifying r(12), is essential for appropriate clinical management and genetic counseling.
Abstract:
We have studied a 13 month-old girl with failure to thrive developmental delay, and dysmorphic features. At 13 months, the weight-age was 1 month, length-age was 3 months and head circumference was at the 3rd centile for 3 months. Physical findings were: Epicanthal folds, mildly cupped, apparently low-set ears, highly arched palate, short neck with low hairline, clinodactyly, and single crease of left 5th finger. The modal chromosome number was 46. Trypsin-G banding identified a ring chromosome 12; Karyotype was 46,XX,r(12)(p13q24).
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