Angelman syndrome is a rare condition which used to be called the "happy puppet" syndrome because the children behave as though they are a "puppet-on-a-string". However, Angelman syndrome is the name used today.
Children have learning difficulties and speech delay that are usually severe. They also have jerking movements, tongue-thrusting, a characteristic (typical) facial appearance, and a happy mood with sudden bursts of laughter and epilepsy. Many children also have a fascination for water, and usually running water.
The condition is due to an abnormality on chromosome 15. The condition is usually diagnosed between four and 10 years of age, but sometimes earlier.
