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Down Syndrome Surveillance Program

A planned program of medical follow-up, growth monitoring, and preventive health services in children with trisomy 21.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Down Syndrome Surveillance Program?

Down syndrome (trisomy 21) is one of the most common chromosomal anomalies, occurring in approximately 1 in 700 live births. Multidisciplinary monitoring of children's physical, cognitive, and developmental aspects has significantly improved life expectancy and quality.

The surveillance program begins at birth. In the neonatal period, echocardiography (cardiac defect), duodenal atresia, and feeding evaluation are performed. Growth is monitored with specific Down syndrome curves. Hearing, vision, thyroid function, and cervical spine evaluations are repeated periodically.

Developmental support programs (early intervention, physiotherapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy) should begin very early. Family counseling, school support, and social integration efforts are important throughout childhood.

Symptoms

Hypotonia in the newborn period
Characteristic facial appearance
Heart murmurs and cyanosis
Feeding difficulty
Developmental delay
Hearing and vision problems
Thyroid dysfunction

Risk Factors

Advanced maternal age
Unbalanced chromosomal translocation
Mosaic trisomy 21
Positive antenatal screening
Family history of Down syndrome
Previous trisomy 21 pregnancy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • For diagnosis and cardiac evaluation in the neonatal period
  • For hearing and vision screenings
  • For regular check-ups for growth monitoring
  • Once a year for thyroid tests
  • For cervical spine evaluation

Treatment Methods

01
Echocardiography (newborn and as needed)
02
Hearing (ABR) and eye examination
03
Annual thyroid function
04
Growth (Down curves) and nutrition
05
Cervical spine radiograph (sports-related evaluation)
06
Early intervention and developmental programs

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.