Turner Syndrome Clinic designated as Level 4 Regional Resource Center

The Children’s National Hospital Turner Syndrome Clinic is proud to be recognized by the Turner Syndrome Global Alliance (TSGA) as a Level 4 Regional Resource Center. Level 4 is the highest Level of Care designation and is based on the KidNECT Care Model which encourages family networking, education, comprehensive coordinated care and transition support as well as leadership in Turner Syndrome (TS) research.

TS is a rare genetic disorder that occurs in 1 to about 2,500 girls and is caused by a partial or complete missing X chromosome. Some of the characteristics of TS are short stature, delayed puberty, kidney, thyroid and heart problems. Although there is no cure for TS, many of the symptoms can be treated.

The Children’s National TS Clinic is part of the Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes which is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the top 10 programs in the nation. The TS Clinic opened in January 2019 and is the first one-of-its-kind in the Washington, D.C. region. A multidisciplinary clinic is held once a month with the team comprising of cardiology, endocrinology, psychology, gynecology and genetics to help care for the needs of patients with TS all in one day. The referral network of specialties includes neuropsychology, otolaryngology, audiology, orthopedics, urology and dentistry.

“I am so proud of our team for their hard work and the excellent clinical care they provide for girls with Turner Syndrome,” says Roopa Kanakatti Shankar, M.D., endocrinologist at Children’s National. “This recognition by the Turner Syndrome Global Alliance means that we not only provide comprehensive care but also serve as a regional leader and resource center for the families we serve. We will continue to raise awareness about Turner Syndrome through our research and partnerships.”