It gets its name from the characteristic high-pitched, mewling cry resembling the mewing of a kitten, which these babies have. It is heard in the immediate new born period, lasts for a few weeks and then disappears. They may also have downward sloping eye folds, a squint and a braod-based nose. The ears are low set, abnormally shaped, often with abnormally narrow canals and skin tags in front of the ears. They also have a short neck.
Heart defects are common and the babies are floppy, with little muscle tone.
A significant number survive to adulthood, but are mentally retarded. You should call on your GP to assist you with any specific medical problems you may be experiencing. Medicine is an ever-changing science. As new research and clinical experience broadens our knowledge, changes in treatment and drug therapy are required. The authors have checked with sources believed to be reliable in their efforts to provide information that is complete and generally in accord with the standards accepted at the time of publication.