Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a genetic disorder that affects multiple systems in the body, characterized by a combination of developmental, physical, and behavioral issues. With early diagnosis and management, individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome can lead productive lives, although ongoing support for behavioral, physical, and nutritional needs is required.

• Cause: Caused by the deletion or lack of expression of genes on the paternal chromosome 15. In most cases, it results from a deletion of part of the chromosome (75%), but it can also be caused by uniparental disomy (when both copies of chromosome 15 come from the mother).

• Features: Low muscle tone in infancy, followed by insatiable hunger, obesity, short stature, intellectual disability, behavioral issues, and hormone-related problems like delayed puberty.

• Diagnosis: Confirmed through genetic testing (e.g., FISH, methylation analysis, or chromosome 15 microarray).

• Treatment: No cure. Management includes a strict diet to control obesity, growth hormone therapy to improve height and muscle mass, speech and physical therapy, and treatment for associated conditions like hormonal imbalances.