Down syndrome

Mrs. V, a healthy 45-year-old woman, gives birth to a child. There are no outward complications associated with the birth but, when
examined by the pediatrician, the child exhibits abnormal facies, a single palmar crease, hypotonic muscles, and loose pelvic joints
Following chromosomal analysis, a diagnosis of Down syndrome is made.

Discuss the cause of Down syndrome. (See Chromosomal Disorders-Trisomy 21.)

What risks factors exist in the family history? Why are these thought to be risk factors? (See Down Syndrome.)

Discuss further characteristics that the child may show as he gets older.