Karyotyping, is it worthwhile in transsexualism?

J Sex Med. 2011 Feb;8(2):475-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2010.02130.x. Epub 2010 Nov 29.

Abstract

Introduction: Karyotyping is often performed in transsexual individuals.

Aim: Quantification and characterization of karyotype findings and abnormalities in transsexual persons.

Main outcome measures: Karyotypes were listed both in male-to-female and in female-to-male transsexual persons.

Methods: The data were collected through a retrospective study.

Results: Karyotypes of 368 transsexual individuals (251 male-to-female, 117 female-to-male) are described. Normal findings were found in 97.55%. Prevalence of abnormal karyotypes was 3.19% among male-to-female, and 0.85% among female-to-male transsexuals. Nine karyotypes showed variations; Klinefelter syndrome was confirmed in three persons, whereas others displayed autosomal aberrations.

Conclusion: Karyotyping is only of very limited information in the transsexual population.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chromosome Aberrations
  • Female
  • Gender Identity
  • Humans
  • Karyotyping*
  • Klinefelter Syndrome / genetics
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Sex Chromosome Aberrations
  • Sex Factors
  • Transsexualism / diagnosis
  • Transsexualism / genetics*