Skip to main content

XLH affects every adult differently

Symptoms of X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) can appear at any age and can worsen or change over time. Symptoms affect children and adults differently.

Adults with XLH may experience symptoms in childhood and new symptoms later in life

These include complications such as increased risk of pseudofractures, osteoarthritis, the hardening of ligaments or tendons, as well as a variety of other musculoskeletal symptoms, including pain and stiffness that can decrease mobility and impact daily function.

Symptoms of XLH in adults

Symptoms in adults may include:

Leg in a cast

Osteomalacia
(Weakening of mature bones)

Short stature

Short
stature

Bone and joint pain

Bone and
joint pain

Bowed legs and knock knees

Bowed legs and
knock knees

Irregularities in walking/balance

Irregularities in
walking/balance

(gait abnormalities)

Muscle pain and weakness

Muscle pain
and weakness

Dental abscesses

Dental
abscesses

Tooth loss

Tooth loss

Irregularities in the shape of the head

Irregularities in the
shape of the head

(craniosynostosis)

Headaches

Headaches
often due to structural defects in the back of the skull (Chiari malformations)

Hardening of ligaments or tendons

Hardening of
ligaments or tendons

(enthesopathy)

Narrowing of spaces in the spinal column

Narrowing of spaces
in the spinal column

(spinal stenosis)

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis

Fractures and pseudofractures

Fractures and
pseudofractures

(areas of bone weakened by a lack of certain minerals)

Hearing loss

Hearing loss

Quality of life

Diminished
quality of life

“I tried to ignore my XLH, but I realize now
that I need to own my symptoms. If I can’t
admit that I have XLH, how am I supposed
to advocate for myself?”
Ashley, living with XLH

Taking the next step

Microscope icon

Understanding diagnosis

Learn how XLH can be
diagnosed early.

Calendar icon

Preparing for a visit

Find out what to expect during an appointment with a specialist.

Download icon

Explore resources

Connect with others by visiting other associations or forums available.