An account is given of a protocol for the early diagnosis of chromosome diseases designed to promote social intervention in cases of "silent" chromosome sex anomalies, and at the same time assess their incidence (at present unknown) in Italy. A preliminary trial was conducted in screening for the Barr chromatin, coupled with examination by a specialist, using a representative sample of 196 elementary school-children from the mountainous districts of the municipality of Massa. Determination of the karyotype in 64 cases led to the detection of certain chromosome varienties, though no alterations. The undertaking screening on a larger scale and for clarifying the organisational methods required.