Researchers have reported chromosomal disorders discovered from prehistoric skeletal remains, dating up to approximately 5,500 years old — including six cases of Down syndrome and one case of Edwards syndrome.
About Edwards syndrome:
It is also known as trisomy 18.
It is an autosomal chromosomal disorder due to an extra copy of chromosome 18.
It is a very severe genetic condition that affects a child’s body development and growth.
Symptoms: Children diagnosed with trisomy 18 have a low birth weight, multiple birth defects and defining physical characteristics.
There are three types of Edwards syndrome
Complete trisomy 18:
It is the most common form (94%).
In this type, every cell contains three complete copies of chromosome 18.
The extra chromosome is most often of maternal origin.
Mosaic trisomy 18:
It is the second most common type (less than 5%).
In this type, both a complete trisomy 18 and a normal cell line exist.
Partial trisomy 18:
In this type, only a partial segment of chromosome 18 is present in triplicate.
The partial triplicate often results from a balanced translocation or inversion carried by one of the parents.
Treatment: There are no specific treatments for trisomy 18. Treatment will focus on the symptoms of the condition, such as heart conditions, breathing difficulties and infections.
Dear Student,
You have still not entered your mailing address. Please enter the address where all the study materials will be sent to you. (If applicable).
