Genetics Flashcards
Describe the key features of Patau syndrome (trisomy 13).
Dysmorphic features, structural abnormalities affecting multiple body systems, and characteristic “rocker bottom feet.”
Describe the key features of Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18).
Dysmorphic features, severe learning disability, and “rocker bottom feet.”
What are the key dysmorphic features of Down’s syndrome?
Hypotonia (reduced muscle tone), brachycephaly (small head with flat back), short neck, short stature, flattened face and nose, prominent epicanthic folds, upward sloping palpebral fissures, and a single palmar crease.
What are common complications associated with Down’s syndrome?
Learning disability, recurrent otitis media, deafness, visual problems (myopia, strabismus, cataracts), hypothyroidism, cardiac defects (ASD, VSD, patent ductus arteriosus, tetralogy of Fallot), atlantoaxial instability, leukaemia, and dementia in adulthood.
What type of hearing loss is commonly seen in Down’s syndrome?
Conductive hearing loss due to Eustachian tube abnormalities (glue ear).
What is the purpose of antenatal screening for Down’s syndrome?
To determine which women should undergo more invasive testing to give a definitive diagnosis.
What is the most accurate first-line screening test for Down’s syndrome?
The combined test, performed between 11 and 14 weeks gestation.
What measurements are taken in the combined test for Down’s syndrome?
Ultrasound: Nuchal translucency (thickness of the back of the fetus’s neck).
Maternal blood tests: Beta-HCG (higher result indicates risk), PAPPA (lower result indicates risk).
What blood markers are assessed in the triple test for Down’s syndrome? How is the quadruple test different from the triple test?
Done between week 14-20
Beta-HCG (higher indicates risk), alpha-fetoprotein (lower indicates risk), and serum oestriol (lower indicates risk).
Quadruple test includes an additional blood test for inhibin-A (higher result indicates risk).
What tests are offered when the screening risk of Down’s syndrome is higher than 1 in 150?
Amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) for definitive diagnosis.
CVS is done before 15 weeks, amniocentesis is done later in pregnancy
What routine follow-up investigations are important for children with Down’s syndrome?
Regular thyroid checks (every 2 years), echocardiograms, regular audiometry (hearing tests), and regular eye checks.
What is the genetic cause of Klinefelter syndrome?
Klinefelter syndrome is caused by an additional X chromosome, making the individual’s karyotype 47 XXY.
What are the physical features of Klinefelter syndrome? What are some cognitive or emotional features of Klinefelter syndrome?
Physical: Taller height, wider hips, gynaecomastia, weaker muscles, small testicles, and reduced libido.
Cog/Emotional: Shyness, subtle learning difficulties (especially in speech and language), and infertility.
What is the genetic cause of Turner syndrome?
Turner syndrome is caused by a missing X chromosome, leading to a 45 XO karyotype.
What are the three classic features of Turner syndrome to remember for exams?
What are some other physical features of Turner syndrome?
Short stature, webbed neck, and widely spaced nipples.
High arching palate, downward sloping eyes with ptosis, broad chest, cubitus valgus, and underdeveloped ovaries.