Question
What is Down syndrome? Can this disease be treated? Can it be detected through prenatal tests?
Answer
Down syndrome, also known as mongolism, is caused by an abnormality in the 21st chromosome. Babies with this condition experience delayed intellectual development and cannot exceed normal levels through rehabilitation training or other methods. Detailed examinations can be done during pregnancy. At 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy, a NT value can be checked through an ultrasound. At 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy, a blood test for the Down screening can be conducted, and if the risk is high, further prenatal diagnosis should be done.