What is Trisomy 13 (Pataus Syndrome)?
Trisomy 13 is a syndrome caused by an extra 13th chromosome. Why does this happen? The exact reason why this happens is not known. There is nothing you could have done to cause or prevent this. How often does this happen? One out of every 20,000-25,000 babies is born with this condition. Girls are affected more often than boys. How is it diagnosed? Some problems associated with Trisomy can be seen on a routine prenatal ultrasound. Your doctor may want to test the fluid in your womb (Amniocentesis), or from the placenta (Chorion Villous Sampling). These tests can detect chromosomal abnormalities. The Maternal-Fetal Medicine doctors will carefully watch your baby’s development in your womb. What are the signs of Trisomy 13? Babies with Trisomy 13 often have low birth weight, even when born full-term. They have a small head, with a sloping forehead. There could be problems with the brain. Most babies with Trisomy 13 do not survive past the first month of life. Those who survive have sever
