Pediatric Down Syndrome

Children with Down syndrome have diverse medical needs and are at higher risk for developing certain health conditions. At Children's Health℠, our experts specialize in caring for children with Down syndrome and are committed to providing compassionate support to your family.

Dallas

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What is Pediatric Down Syndrome?

Pediatric Down syndrome is a condition that is caused by extra genetic material. It’s one of the most common genetic conditions in the United States. The extra genetic material often causes delays in physical and mental development. It also increases the risk of developing other health issues, like heart defects, eye diseases and hearing problems.

Children with Down syndrome often look and act differently than children who don’t have Down syndrome. Mild to moderate intellectual disability and distinctive physical features are common in children with Down syndrome.

What are the signs and symptoms of Down Syndrome in Children?

Physical characteristics may include:

Almond shaped eyes that slant upward
A short neck
Small ears
Short arms and legs
Low muscle tone
Short height

Mental, developmental and behavioral symptoms may include:

Delays in talking and walking
Mild to moderate intellectual disability
Challenges with attention span and memory
Impulsive behavior and temper tantrums

How is Pediatric Down Syndrome diagnosed?

Down syndrome is typically diagnosed before a child is born during prenatal screening or with diagnostic tests. If not diagnosed during pregnancy, it may be diagnosed in the first 24 hours of life. Neither screening or diagnostic testing can determine the full impact Down syndrome will have on a baby.

Screening tests. These tests are usually performed during routine prenatal appointments. Screening tests estimate the chances that a baby has Down syndrome and help decide whether diagnostic tests are needed. For example, an ultrasound is a type of screening test that is routinely used to assess fetal development during pregnancy.
Diagnostic tests. These tests are performed if the result of a routine prenatal screening shows a possible health condition. Diagnostic tests accurately diagnose Down syndrome and other genetic disorders. These can be done by taking a sample of the mother’s blood or getting a sample of the baby’s cells while still in the uterus.

What causes Pediatric Down Syndrome?

Pediatric Down syndrome happens when a baby is born with an extra chromosome (genetic material). Doctors don’t know why this happens, but there are many risk factors.

How is Pediatric Down Syndrome treated?

Treatment for Down syndrome focuses on addressing associated health problems. Some of the most common health problems children with Down syndrome have include:

Heart disease
Hearing loss
Eye disease
Sleep disorders
Feeding disorders
Spine disorders
Muscle problems

Treatment for children with Down syndrome usually includes:

Occupational therapy
Physical therapy
Speech and feeding disorder therapy

Our team will work closely with you to make sure your child is receiving the best care possible for their medical, developmental and behavioral concerns. Each child is different and will have a unique care plan that meets their individual needs.

Our dedicated Pediatric Down Syndrome Clinic provides specialty care focusing on the health and developmental issues of babies, children and teens with Down syndrome.