Rett syndrome is a rare neurological and developmental disorder that affects one in every 10,000 births of women around the world. It is characterized by severe cognitive impairment, including loss of motor and communication skills, reduced growth, and unusual breathing patterns. Obtaining specialized care for Rett syndrome can be a challenge, as most clinics lack doctors and medical staff trained to treat it. Fortunately, the International Rett Syndrome Foundation (IRSF) has designated 15 clinics in the United States as members of the Network of Centers of Excellence.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is one of these 15 centers and is renowned for its ongoing commitment to providing the best clinical care for Rett syndrome. The Civitan Rett Syndrome Clinic of the UAB, which is part of the Sparks-Civitan Clinics, is led by Dr. Alan Percy, one of the world's leading experts on this unique disorder. When he was at Baylor Medical School in the 1980s, Percy was one of the first doctors in the United States to identify the condition.
The continued recognition of UAB as a leader in Rett syndrome care will make it the go-to clinic for local families and will help educate other doctors about Rett syndrome care. There are no approved treatments for Rett syndrome, and research from the network's clinical trials will play an essential role in ensuring that therapeutic development progresses as quickly as possible. Girls and women with Rett syndrome are expected to demonstrate a wide range of emotions and enjoy satisfying social, recreational and educational experiences at home and in the community. For families living in Fairhope, Alabama, UAB's Civitan Rett Syndrome Clinic is an excellent option for specialized care for their child with Rett syndrome. The clinic provides physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy services, and has treated many children with Rett syndrome and are familiar with their unique needs.
The clinic also offers regular updates in your inbox to keep families informed about their child's condition. In addition to UAB's Civitan Rett Syndrome Clinic, families can also seek help from United Ability's Ability Clinic which provides physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy services. The purpose of this study is to advance the understanding of the natural history of Rett syndrome (RTT), MECP2 duplication disorder (MECP2 Dup), RTT-related disorders, such as CDKL5, FOXG1 and people with MECP2 mutations who do not have RTT. Family empowerment representatives are also available to provide emotional support, information, and resources to families affected by Rett syndrome.
They can help families more easily identify a source of expert help closest to their homes and provide advice on how to cope with the disease. Rett syndrome is a complex disorder that requires specialized attention and understanding to help your child and family thrive. If you are looking for medical professionals who specialize in Rett Syndrome in Fairhope, Alabama, UAB's Civitan Rett Syndrome Clinic or United Ability's Ability Clinic are excellent options.
