Detected Abnormalities
On this page you will find information about detected abnormalities in unborn babies.
Downs Syndrome
- This is a chromosome abnormailty where there 3 copies of chromosome 21 instead of the usual 2. This can also be called Trisomy 21.
- People with Downs Syndrome have distinctive facial features and can also suffer with mental handicaps and lung and heart problems.
- Level of Downs can not be determined during pregnancy.
Edwards Syndrome
- Another chromosome abnormality but instead of 3 copies of chromosome 21, there are 3 copies of chromosome 18. This is also called trisomy 18.
- With this condition babies may not survive pregnancy, may have a short life span and require specialised nursing..
- Some people with Edwards Syndrome can be nursed at home.
Hydrocephalus
- This is an imbalence in the production and asorbtion of celebrospinal fluid which causes the ventricles of the brain to swell.
- Causes vary and is rarely genetic, also the effects vary significantly.
- Prognosis is poor where it is detected during pregnancy.
