Down syndrome is a genetic condition in which children are born with an extra chromosome. While the condition can affect development and health, our care team will work with your family to overcome challenges and support your child’s well-being.

At the Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment, we partner with families to support children with Down syndrome from infancy through young adulthood. By bringing multiple specialists together in one place, we make care easier for families and more coordinated for your child.

Signs of Down Syndrome

Babies with Down syndrome often have distinct physical features, which may include:

  • Flat bridge of the nose
  • Eyes that slant upwards
  • Short neck
  • Small mouth
  • Small hands and feet
  • Weak muscles
  • Loose joints

As they grow, kids with Down syndrome take longer to reach developmental milestones like walking and talking. They may also have an intellectual disability.

Getting Help for Down Syndrome

Your maternal fetal medicine specialist, neonatologist (newborn intensive care specialist), pediatrician or primary care provider can refer you to us. Families are also welcome to contact us directly to learn more about scheduling an appointment.

Types of Down Syndrome

We specialize in treating the three main types of Down syndrome.

Trisomy 21

Trisomy 21 is the most common type of Down syndrome. In kids with Trisomy 21, all their cells have an extra chromosome 21 (three instead of the usual two). This type is not inherited and occurs because of an error when the cells divide during development.

Translocation Down Syndrome

This rarer type of Down syndrome can sometimes run in families. It occurs when an extra chromosome 21 attaches to another chromosome. Parents with or without Down syndrome can pass this to their kids.

Mosaic Down Syndrome

Mosaic Down syndrome is rare and not inherited. Children with this type have only some cells with an extra chromosome 21. However, they will still have features associated with Down syndrome.