Down Syndrome
By: AAron Phanthouvong
The Symptoms of Down Syndrome
Is it life threatening? What is the life expectancy?
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/down-syndrome/basics/complications/con-20020948
Prevalence? How is it common?
http://www.who.int/genomics/public/geneticdiseases/en/index1.html
Which chromosome does it affect? What is abnormal about it?
Is there anything that can increase the chances of this abnormality?
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/down-syndrome/basics/risk-factors/con-20020948
Where can people go to get support if they know someone that has this syndrome?
One of the best ways to meet other parents is to get involved in a local Down syndrome parent support group. These groups can provide you with an excellent forum for sharing your feelings and concerns as a new parent, and an opportunity to learn from the experiences of others who have been in your shoes. Learning more about Down syndrome can also help ease some of your uncertainty, and support groups are a great place to start gaining knowledge. In addition to providing emotional support, other parents can recommend useful Down syndrome resources and help you understand the new terminology. NDSS has a network of more than 375 affiliates. In addition to having support group meetings, most affiliates offer a wide range of programs and services for individuals with Down syndrome and their families, such as sibling workshops, early intervention programs, social activities and events to raise public awareness.
http://www.ndss.org/Resources/New-Expectant-Parents/Finding-Support/
Down Syndrome Karyotypes
The karyotypes of Down syndrome involve any of the following 3 varieties:
Mosaic Down Syndrome: This is a rare form, where only some cells have an extra chromosome 21. The presence of both normal and abnormal cells (mosaic) is due to abnormal cell division after the egg is fertilized by the sperm.
Translocation Down Syndrome: Sometimes a part of chromosome 21 is translocated, or becomes attached to another chromosome, before or during conception. This results in children having the usual pair of chromosome 21, but additional genetic material from chromosome 21 is attached to another chromosome.
The image on the right shows chromosome 21 having three copies. In most affected patients, this karyotype is found in all cells (trisomy). In very few patients, only some cells contain extra chromosome 21, while others appear normal (mosaic form).
http://www.newhealthadvisor.com/down-syndrome-karyotype.html