Patient's question:
I am 18 weeks and 4 days pregnant and have been diagnosed with Down syndrome. What should I do? The patient is a female, 21 years old. She has been in good health previously, and this condition was discovered during a routine prenatal examination.Doctor's answer:
Analysis of the condition: Based on your description, this Down syndrome, also known as 21-trisomy syndrome or congenital idiocy, is the most common birth defect caused by chromosomal abnormalities in children. Most fetuses will abort, and the main clinical features of affected children include intellectual disability, delayed physical development, and a distinctive facial appearance, which may also be accompanied by multiple deformities.Recommendations: It is recommended that you communicate with your doctor promptly and prepare for future health care. The cause should be investigated, as factors such as advanced maternal age, environmental influences (e.g., medications, radiation, chemicals, viral infections) can also affect the fetus.