Dyspraxia

Can dyspraxia be genetic?  My partner has a son from a previos relationship who is dyspraxic.  I am keen to find out if it could be a fragile X c or genetic.  Also can it be tested for in early pregnancy?

[Jordanna Joaquina, MS, CGC]

A person with dyspraxia has problems with movement and coordination. The causes of dyspraxia are largely unknown. In some families/individuals, dyspraxia may be a feature of an underlying genetic syndrome.

We recommend that your husband and his son meet with a clinical geneticist for evaluation. A clinical geneticist can perform a detailed physical exam and may order tests to help determine if there is a genetic cause for your son's behaviours and problems. This information may be informative to other family members, such as for your future pregnancies. A medical geneticist can be found at the American College of Medical Genetics website. Best wishes to you and your family.