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What causes progeria?

Progeria is caused by a rare genetic mutation of the LMNA gene. In progeria, the LMNA gene is changed at a very specific point, which causes a range of symptoms associated with premature ageing. The mutation or alteration to LMNA occurs at random, which means that parents and other children are virtually never affected by the condition.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is progeria?

Progeria, also known as Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), is an extremely rare genetic condition that causes children to prematurely age.

What are the symptoms of progeria?

Signs and symptoms of progeria usually appear in a child from around the age of one year. These can include: weighing less and being shorter than others their age; aged-looking skin; hair loss and baldness; visible veins; a small face with a pinched nose …

Who gets progeria?

Progeria is a random and rare genetic condition that affects one in four million newborns worldwide.

How is progeria diagnosed?

It is possible to diagnose progeria using a genetic test. This involves taking a blood sample to see if there is a mutation in the LMNA gene.

How is progeria treated?

Currently there is no cure for progeria; however, research is ongoing. There are medications available to manage some symptoms and improve quality of life. These include cholesterol-lowering medications to slow atherosclerosis and osteoporosis medication to …

Can progeria be cured?

Currently there is no cure for progeria.

Is progeria contagious?

Progeria is not contagious.

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About this article

Author: Dr Idan Ben-Barak PhD, MSc, BSc (Med)
First answered: 07 Oct 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.1 out of 5
Votes: 514 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Fetal alcohol syndrome

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