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Living with Chromosome 3q13.31 deletion syndrome

A missing piece of chromosome 3 with significant developmental delay, low muscle tone, and distinct facial features.

Understanding Chromosome 3q13.31 deletion syndrome

Chromosome 3q13.31 deletion syndrome (3q13 microdeletion syndrome) is a rare condition from a partial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 3.

Features vary but mainly include significant developmental delay, growth above average after birth, low muscle tone, and distinct facial features. Skeletal differences and differences in the male genitals are frequently present. GARD lists onset during pregnancy and at birth.

Signs & symptoms

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

  • Low muscle tone (hypotonia)
  • Larger head size (macrocephaly)
  • Missing corpus callosum in the brain
  • Eye folds (epicanthus)
  • Long philtrum
  • Joint stiffness and hand differences

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?
Should the brain be checked with imaging?
What therapies can support development and muscle tone?

Quick facts

Symptoms usually startduring Pregnancy and as a Newborn
InheritanceAutosomal Dominant

GARD says it results from a partial deletion of the long arm of chromosome 3 at q13.31. It is listed as autosomal dominant.

Genetic

Also known as: 3q13 microdeletion syndrome; del(3)(q13); monosomy 3q13

Patient organizations

Broader rare-disease groups

Source: NIH GARD · Chromosome 3q13.31 deletion syndromeGARD ID 16573 · 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 3q13.31 deletion syndrome.

Explore the Chromosome 3q13.31 deletion syndrome blog

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