On July 21, as the term "superandrogenic syndrome" appeared on Weibo, the public had a widespread discussion about this relatively unfamiliar medical term. A pregnant woman's plea for help and the ensuing large number of messages urging her to terminate her pregnancy highlight the misunderstanding and panic in society about superandrogenic syndrome.
Superandrogenic syndrome: medical interpretations and misunderstandings
Superandrogenic syndrome, medically known as XYY syndrome, is a chromosomal abnormality in which a patient has two Y chromosomes. Contrary to popular misconception, most people with XYY do not have a higher criminal tendencies or aggression. Dr. Jiang from the prenatal diagnosis center of a tertiary hospital in Chongqing emphasized that the XYY chromosome is not an extreme case in newborns, and most pregnant women choose to keep the fetus after understanding the situation.
Pregnant women: social pressures and personal dilemmas
Ms. Chen, a pregnant woman at the Sichuan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, was anxious to send the test report to the Internet to seek complaints after learning that the fetus might have hyperandrogenic syndrome, but what came to her face was huge social pressure from netizens.
A large number of comments on social platforms, based on the wrong perception of supermale syndrome, persuaded him to "kill" the fetus. The label of "born bad" in these comments exacerbated Ms. Chen's psychological burden. Eventually, Ms. Chen made the decision to terminate the pregnancy.
The "supermale" fetus "devoured" another fetus!?
In a report from the Sichuan Provincial Maternal and Child Health Hospital, attentive netizens noticed a thought-provoking description: "A large number of Y chromosomes were detected in the sample, and it is speculated that XY and XYY are chimeric, or other complex karyotypes." This led some netizens to speculate: "Does chimerism mean that you are pregnant with twins, and one of the fetuses absorbs the other?" ”
In fact, chimerism, while rare in nature, is not impossible to occur in any living organism. What the report refers to is not to tell us that there are two separate lives in the fetus, let alone the horrific episode of one fetus "devouring" the other. In fact, it describes the existence of two different chromosomal systems in the fetus: the XY male system, which is known as the 46-chromosome, and the XYY super-male syndrome system, which contains 47 chromosomes.
This coexistence may be due to failure to separate properly during early meiosis, or errors occur during later mitosis. If there is a chimerism of XX and XY, it may form what we commonly call sex dysplasia. But in this case, the pregnant woman's baby is a chimera with masculine characteristics and superandrogenic syndrome characteristics, which is not scary, but a natural phenomenon in genetics.
We should look at such phenomena with a scientific lens, rather than being swayed by unfounded speculations and misunderstandings. Understanding and embracing this genetic diversity is an important step in building a more inclusive and understanding society.
Netizens: From misunderstanding to understanding
Ms. Chen's experience has sparked widespread concern about hyperandrogenic syndrome. More and more netizens are calling on society not to demonize superhero syndrome, emphasizing that everyone should be treated with equal respect and opportunities. They say more information and medical guidance are needed to fully understand hyperandrogenic syndrome and avoid jumping to conclusions. However, there are still some netizens who insist that superandrogenic syndrome is related to criminal behavior and are worried about the social impact after giving birth to a child.
Medical Expert: "Superhero" can also lead a normal life
Medical experts point out that most people with hyperandrogenic syndrome are able to lead normal lives, and only a few may show some behavioral problems. Importantly, these behavioural problems are not inevitable and that proper education and social support can help them lead normal lives.
People with hyperandrogenic syndrome and their families need social understanding and support, not prejudice and rejection. We need to raise public awareness of these genetic symptoms, eliminate the stereotype that "born bad", and create a more inclusive and friendly social environment for patients. At the same time, we respect the choices of each pregnant woman and provide comprehensive and accurate information to help them make the most suitable decision for them.
This article is based on real events, is intended to provide accurate information and rational discussion, and does not represent all views. If in doubt, consult a medical professional.