Down syndrome
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A congenital disorder caused by having an extra 21st chromosome: Down syndrome is a genetic condition present from birth, resulting from an extra copy of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21). This genetic difference affects physical and cognitive development.
- Results in characteristic physical features and intellectual disability: The condition is associated with a distinct facial appearance (such as a flat face), short stature, and varying degrees of intellectual impairment or developmental delay.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The baby was diagnosed with Down syndrome shortly after birth.
- Early intervention programs can greatly benefit children with Down syndrome.
- People with Down syndrome lead fulfilling lives with appropriate support.
Advanced Usage
- "to have Down syndrome": This is the standard and respectful phrasing to indicate a person has the condition.
- My cousin has Down syndrome and is a talented artist.
Variants and Related Words
- Down's syndrome: An alternative, equally correct spelling, more common in British English.
- Trisomy 21: The medical/technical term for the most common genetic cause of Down syndrome.
- Congenital disorder: A broader category of conditions present at birth, which includes Down syndrome.
Synonyms
- Trisomy 21: (Medical synonym)
- Down's syndrome: (Variant spelling synonym)
Notes on Usage
- Down syndrome is named after Dr. John Langdon Down, who described the condition. It is considered a standard term in medical and general use.
- When referring to an individual, it is recommended to use "person-first" language (e.g., "a person with Down syndrome") or identity-first language as preferred by the individual or community (e.g., "a Down syndrome person"). The key is to emphasize the person, not just the diagnosis.
- The term "mental retardation" used in the reference definition is now considered outdated and offensive. Preferred contemporary terms include "intellectual disability" or "developmental delay."
Noun
- a congenital disorder caused by having an extra 21st chromosome; results in a flat face and short stature and mental retardation