Edwards Syndrome

Edwards syndrome is a genetic condition that causes the death of the baby in most of the cases, and if not, it causes serious intellectual challenges.

Edwards syndrome

Edwards syndrome is a genetic condition that affects the development and growth of the child. It’s a rare condition, and most affected babies die.

Causes of Edwards syndrome

• Edwards’ syndrome occurs because there is an extra copy of chromosome 18, which makes them 3 instead of 2. This probably occurs due to a change in the egg or sperm before pregnancy.
• The risk of Edwards syndrome increases with the age of the mother before pregnancy.

Symptoms of Edwards syndrome

• Symptoms of Edward’s syndrome during pregnancy: a small placenta, a single artery in the umbilical cord, decreased fetal activity, birth defects, and too much amniotic fluid around the fetus. Often, trisomy 18 causes miscarriage during the first trimester of pregnancy.
• Symptoms of Edwards syndrome after birth: cleft lip or palate, club feet, overlapping fingers, ears lower than their normal position, low birth weight, problems in the heart or kidneys, decreased muscle tone, an unusual-looking face or head, and intellectual disabilities. Trisomy 18 can also cause respiratory failure, scoliosis, hernias, and birth defects in the gastrointestinal tract.
• Most cases of Edwards syndrome die during pregnancy or shortly after birth.

Diagnosis of Edwards syndrome

• Ultrasound screening.
• A sample of the amniotic fluid.
• A sample from the placenta.

Treatment of Edwards syndrome

• There isn’t a cure for Edwards syndrome, and managing the condition depends on the symptoms.