TRISOMY 18 (EDWARDS SYNDROME)
Edwards syndrome is the second most common pattern of human malformation.
Genetics—older maternal age; nondisjunction
Findings
Growth deficiency
Mental retardation
Low-set, malformed ears; microcephaly, micrognathia; prominent
occiput
Clenched hand—index over third; fifth over fourth
Short sternum
VSD, ASD, PDA, cyanotic lesions,
Rocker-bottom feet, hammer toe
Omphalocele
Natural history
Many spontaneous abortions
Feeble from birth
Most do not survive first year