Down Syndrome

Typical Facial Features of Down Syndrome

upslanting palpebral fissures, a suggestion of epicanthal folds, and a flat nasal bridge.

Picture 2 : Congenital Cataract

The other striking physical finding in this newborn was hypotonia. When this infant was lifted off the bed, the examiner had to give much more than the typical amount of support to the infants' head and shoulders, and still the arms flop back towards the bed. The sensation is similar to handling a rag doll. For a newborn, hypotonia of this degree can significantly impact the baby's ability to feed well, so breastfeeding should be carefully monitored.

pic4: Clinodactyly

Another physical finding in many infants with Down's syndrome is an increased gap between the great and first toes. While this finding can occur as a familial trait, when it occurs in constellation with other features of Down's, it supports the diagnosis.


Note: All this pictures are from Janelle Aby, MD, Stanford School of Medicine