Dr. Kozel with a patientThe Williams Syndrome Center at St. Louis Children's Hospital offers coordinated care for the diagnosis and treatment of Williams syndrome (WS). Williams syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that is associated with developmental delays and medical problems affecting multiple parts of the body.

Features of Williams syndrome include:

  • Facial features often described as pixie-like
  • Feeding problems
  • Developmental delays
  • Characteristic personality features
  • Blood vessel and other heart problems
  • Problems with hormones

Additional health concerns associated with Williams syndrome include:

  • Eye crossing
  • Difficulty with potty training: increased frequency of needing to go to the bathroom, urgency leading to accidents, or the feeling of pain with urination
  • Hernias and other problems related to connective tissue, such as loose or tight joints
  • Scoliosis

Why Choose the Williams Syndrome Center?

The health issues that accompany Williams syndrome are not one size fits all. That’s why it’s important to be treated at a center with a team of specialists who have expertise in Williams syndrome — so that your child gets the individual treatment plan that best fits his or her needs. Our team is here to help you each step of the way — from which therapies to provide for your child now to what to watch for as your child develops.

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