Study of the clinical features of Downs’s syndrome and relation between dermatoglyphics and congenital heart disease if any

Abstract

Introduction: Down syndrome is one of the most common cause of congenital malformation with mental retardation seen with an estimated prevalence of 1/600 – 1/800 births. A wide range of abnormalities are seen, some of which are characteristic of Downs syndrome. Objectives and Aim: The present study was aimed at studying the various clinical features including dermatologlyphic patterns in Down syndrome and to find any correlation with congenital heart disease. Materials and Methods: 34 children £18 years with features of down syndromes were assessed for various clinical presentation and dermatoglyphic patterns analyzed. Those with congenial heart disease were also noted to check for any correlation with dermatoglyphic patterns in Downs syndrome.3 ml blood was drawn and thyroid function were recorded. Results: The majority of clinical features observed include slanted palpebral fissure, icrocephaly, epicanthal fold, macroglossia, hypotonia, flat facies, brachycephaly, high arched palate. Dermatoglyphic patterns show increased prevalence of simian crease clinodactly ulnal loops on the finger tips and atd angle >45 in the children. Statistically significant correlation was found when clinodactly of the left hand, left third inter digital space pattern, open field defect and sandal gap of the toes was compared with down syndrome children with CHD.