A study on morphological features in relation with co-morbidities of down ’s syndrome

Abstract

Background: Downs syndrome (DS) is the most commonly identified genetic form of mental retardation and the leading cause of specific birth defects and medical conditions. DS is a multi-system disorder with varied clinical features that affects the individual physically, medically and psychologically. Aims and Objectives:1. To study the morphological features of DS and their co morbidities. 2.To study the relation between morphology and co morbidities of DS. Materials and methods: This were an observational study done at special school for downs syndrome (n= 60). After prior consent socio demographic data was taken using semi structured proforma and morphological data was noted by general examination and the co-morbidities are noted with the clinical reports available with them. Discussion: Morphological features in the current study are varied and supports the earlier literature that DS is a multi-system disorder that affects the individual physically, medically and psychologically. Results: Individuals showed diversified clinical features .Results revealed that males are more than females and among the associated clinical features majority of the individuals have flat nose and least number of individuals have nystagmus. Conclusion: DS is a genetic anomaly with considerable medical co morbidities. Early identification of co morbidities with proper health education to the parents helps in preventing the major harmful effects and promotes better healthier life.