How Down Syndrome can be detected?

Question

How Down Syndrome can be detected?

Answer 1

An amniocentesis can be used to detect Downs Syndrome in utero. This test involves sampling the mother's amniotic fluid (fluid that surrounds the fetus in the mom's uterus) and then the sample is analyzed for chromosomes that indicate Downs.

Answer 2

Hello Sai!

Because Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder, we can detect it through what is called a karyotype. A karyotype is basically a picture of a child's chromosomes which can be attained by taking a sample of the pregnant mother's amniotic fluid which contains that child's DNA. Down Syndrome, or trisomy 21, is the result of an extra copy of the 21st chromosome. Geneticists analyze a karyotype to determine whether or not a third copy of chromosome 21 is present and therefore, if the child will have Down Syndrome.

I hope this helps!