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Living with Chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndrome

A rare condition from a missing piece of chromosome 16 that causes developmental delay and distinct facial features.

Understanding Chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndrome

Chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndrome (16p11.2-p12.2 microdeletion syndrome) is a condition with developmental delay and facial differences.

GARD says the main features are developmental delay and differences in facial features. It lists onset in the newborn period and infancy.

Signs & symptoms

Symptoms vary from person to person. GARD lists these among the most common:

  • Delayed speech and language
  • Differently shaped ears
  • Deep-set eyes
  • Eyelid openings that slant downward
  • Long-lasting middle ear infections
  • Acid reflux

Not everyone has every symptom. GARD's list comes from the Human Phenotype Ontology.

Diagnosis

  1. Talk with your doctor

    Share the symptoms you've noticed, when they started and your family health history. Notes and photos can help.

  2. See a specialist

    Specialists who may be involved include genetic specialists.

  3. Ask which tests can help

    Your care team will decide which exams and tests can confirm the diagnosis.

Care & treatment

Care team
Genetic specialists (geneticists)
Expert care
Ask about multidisciplinary care centers for rare conditions
Treatment
GARD doesn't list specific treatments for this condition. Your care team will tailor care to your symptoms.
Research
Clinical trials and observational studies may be options. See the research section below.

General information, not medical advice. Your care team makes the decisions.

Everyday life

Living with a rare condition is easier with support.

  • Connect with Chromosome Disorder Outreach
  • Keep notes on symptoms, changes and questions for appointments
  • Ask about patient registries that help research
  • Look into financial aid and travel resources for care visits
Bring these questions to your next doctor visit
Which genetic test confirmed the deletion, and what does it mean for us?
Should my child's hearing and ears be checked often?
What therapies can support speech and development?

Quick facts

Symptoms usually startNewborn and as an Infant

GARD says it is caused by a missing piece (deletion) of chromosome 16 at p11.2-p12.2.

Genetic

Also known as: 16p11.2-p12.2 microdeletion syndrome; 16p11.2p12.2 microdeletion syndrome; chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndrome, 7.1- to 8.7-mb; chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndrome, isolated cases; del(16)(p11.2p12.2); monosomy 16p11.2-p12.2

Patient organizations

Broader rare-disease groups

Source: NIH GARD · Chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndromeGARD ID 17243 · GARD page updated September 2026 · Plain-language summary by Know Rare; editorial review pending. General information, not medical advice.

You are more than your diagnosis

Perspectives from people navigating life with Chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndrome.

Explore the Chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndrome blog

Explore research for Chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndrome

Explore actively recruiting Chromosome 16p12.2-p11.2 deletion syndrome studies with HealthSpark.

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