What types of problems do children with trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 typically have?
• Babies with trisomy 18 Babies with trisomy 18 appear thin and frail. They fail to thrive and have problems feeding. Trisomy 18 causes a small head size, with the back of the head (occiput) prominent. Ears are usually low-set on the head. The mouth and jaw are unusually small, and there is a shortened sternum (breastbone). At birth, these babies are small for their age, even when delivered full-term, and have a weak cry. Their response to sound is decreased and there is often a history of infrequent fetal activity during the pregnancy. About 90 percent of babies with trisomy 18 have heart defects. They clench their fists in a characteristic manner and fully extending the fingers is difficult. Joint contractures – where the arms and legs are in a bent position, rather than relaxed – are usually present. The feet may be referred to as “rocker bottom” due to their shape. Babies with trisomy 18 may also have spina bifida, eye problems, cleft lip and palate, and hearing loss. It is also co
