Werner Syndrome

Werner syndrome is a condition that causes premature aging.  People with this syndrome will develop and grow normally until puberty. At puberty, growth stops and adults with Werner syndrome are typically shorter than average. By the early 20s-30s, people with this syndrome develop conditions usually associated with more advanced ages. In addition, people with Werner syndrome have an increased risk of developing cancer, especially thyroid and skin cancers. Heart attack and cancer are the most common causes of death. Werner syndrome is caused by mutations in the WRN gene and is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner.  This condition is diagnosed based on the symptoms and genetic testing. Treatment is based on individual symptoms and focuses on prevention of heart disease and cancer.