What is Angelman syndrome?
Angelman syndrome (AS) is an inherited neurological disorder resulting in severe learning difficulties, developmental delay, and typical facial appearance and behavior. The most common age of diagnosis with Angelman syndrome is between three and seven years when the signs become most evident. AS affects about 1 in 12,000 to 20,000 people.

To learn more about genetics and to better understand how genes cause syndromes, see Your Child:  Genetic Syndromes.

Where can I find more information and support?

• YourChild:  Genetic Syndromes
• YourChild:  Chronic Conditions
• YourChild:  Developmental Delay
• YourChild:  Learning Disabilities
• YourChild:  Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• Angelman syndrome information page from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
• Angelman syndrome from the Genetics Home Reference, part of NIH, has basic information and lots of useful links.
• The Angelman Syndrome Foundation (ASF) promotes education, information exchange and research.  They can put you in touch with a local contact family, and their site provides lots of information.
• The International Angelman Syndrome Organisation (IASO) was founded as an “umbrella” group for national Angelman groups worldwide.  A major purpose of the group is to provide translated information in a number of languages.
• Spanish-language IASO
• Message board for families with AS children.
• Genetics and genetic testing for AS—this is fairly academic information.  You can register for free to get the full review.

Compiled by Kyla Boyse, R.N.  Reviewed by faculty and staff at the University of Michigan
Updated June 2008

U-M Health System Related Sites:
U-M Pediatrics

Our editorial policy
The information and links we provide are reviewed by University of Michigan developmental and behavioral pediatricians and child psychologists who are experts in child behavioral health. In choosing the links we provide, we use strict criteria to ensure that the information is accurate, and the source is reputable. As much as possible, we focus on information that is based on research. In areas where there is inadequate research, we include information compatible with prevailing expert opinion.

This website is updated regularly, but because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, we cannot be responsible for misinformation that may be accessed through the links provided. As always, this website is not a tool for self-diagnosis, and is not a substitute for professional care.

Back to Child Development & Behavior Topics >