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Featured Condtion/Disease: Down Syndrome
We are featuring a childhood/infant disease or condition informational post every other Friday. Today's topic is Down Syndrome.
Definition:
Down Syndrome is caused by having an extra chromosome. Chromosomes are part of the nucleus of the cell, containing the information that makes up a person. Individuals with Down Syndrome have 47 chromosomes instead of the usual 46. A typical child has two copies of chromosome 21. Children with Down Syndrome have three copies of this chromosome, causing changes in the development of the body and the brain.
Signs
- Slanted eyes with folds of skin at the inner corners.
- Short, broad hands with a single crease along the palm.
- Flat bridge of the nose.
- Short, low-set ears.
- Short neck.
- Small head.
- Tongue sticks out.
- Broad feet with short toes.
- Low muscle tone, causing muscles to feel floppy.
- Levels of mental retardation vary by child.
To get more information about Down Syndrome, click here.
*Most of the information provided here is from the Teach More/Love More site, click here to visit their site.
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