Deletion of 11q: report of two cases and a review

A terminal deletion of the long arm of chromosome 11 is compatible with life, and the affected child uniformly shows growth and mental retardation and telecanthus. However, no clear-cut, distinctive clinical syndrome is apparent. Mental and growth retardation alone may be the sole indications for chromosome analysis, as the virtual absence of dysmorphic features in some cases (Case 2) is noteworthy. Other appropriate family members should be evaluated to determine whether there is a familial balanced reciprocal translocation present and proper genetic counseling provided.