Down Syndrome

What Causes Down Syndrome?
Frequently Asked Questions
Myths and Truths

How do you diagnose Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome can be diagnosed because of the appearance of the child. The following are characterisics of a child with Down Syndrome.
"1. Muscle hypotonia, low muscle tone
2. Flat facial profile, a somewhat depressed nasal bridge and a small nose
3. Oblique palpebral fissures, an upward slant to the eyes
4. Dysplastic ear, an abnormal shape of the ear
5. A single deep crease across the center of the palm
6. Hyperflexibility, an excessive ability to extend the joints
7. Dysplastic middle phalanx of the fifth finger, fifth finger has one flexion furrow instead of two
8. Epicanthal folds, small skin folds on the inner corner of the eyes
9. Excessive space between large and second toe
10. Enlargement of tongue in relationship to size of mouth"
Source: National Down Syndrome Society. "How is Down syndrome diagnosed in a newborn?". March 2003.
Be sure to check out our down syndrome links page to go to sites with more information on down syndrome.