Down Syndrome
By: Susmitha Gaikwad
What is Down Syndrome?
Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder also called Trisomy 21, is a condition in which extra genetic material causes delays in the way a child develops, both mentally and physically.
Symptoms
Decreased or poor muscle tone.
Short neck, with excess skin at the back of the neck.
Flattened facial profile and nose.
Small head, ears, and mouth.
Upward slanting eyes, often with a skin fold that comes out from the upper eyelid and covers the inner corner of the eye.
Short neck, with excess skin at the back of the neck.
Flattened facial profile and nose.
Small head, ears, and mouth.
Upward slanting eyes, often with a skin fold that comes out from the upper eyelid and covers the inner corner of the eye.
How is it discovered?
In 1866 British physician, John Langdon Down, for whom the syndrome is now named, first described Down syndrome, as “Mongolism.” The term Down syndrome didn't become the accepted term until the early 1970s.
How was it diagnosed?
Chromosomes may be studied by examining blood or tissue cells. Two types of procedures are available to pregnant women: screening and diagnostic tests. The screening tests estimate the risk of the baby having Down syndrome. Diagnostic tests tell whether or not the baby actually has Down syndrome.
Treatment
There is no current cure but there are therapists that can help Down syndrome people with their symptoms.
People With Down Syndrome Speak Out