title: Rett syndrome--a rare and often misdiagnosed syndrome: case report.
abstract: Rett syndrome is a recently discovered, progressive neurological disorder that occurs exclusively in females early in life. Females with this rare and often misdiagnosed clinical entity have unusual but distinctive oral/digital habits. Dentists aware of Rett syndrome and its distinct manifestations will be able to aid in early diagnosis and treatment of those afflicted. A case report of a 4-year, 3-month-old white female with Rett syndrome and review of pertinent literature are presented. The previously reported oral/digital habits and oral manifestations of Rett syndrome are listed along with other unreported oral findings. Many of these oral manifestations are not unique to Rett syndrome. There is a likelihood that they may be related to trauma secondary to the excessive oral/digital habits, poor gait, and seizure activity.
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Buccino
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Weddell
mesh_terms: D001072:Apraxias; D001321:Autistic Disorder; D002012:Bruxism; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003704:Dementia; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009056:Mouth Abnormalities; D013239:Stereotyped Behavior; D013577:Syndrome