Down syndrome (DS) consists of the largest group of
children with mental retardation due to a single
recognizable syndrome. Once the diagnosis of DS is
made (by the paediatrician, neonatologist or family
physician), it ushers in a series of investigations for
associated medical problems. This is because in this
syndrome almost every system or organ in the body
needs special attention. Appropriate interventions, if
carried out on time, can reduce complications and
improve the quality of life of these children. It is
therefore important that all doctors caring for
children with Down syndrome are updated with the
latest recommendations and are mindful that they
should avoid inflicting undue hardships on the
family.
Down syndrome (DS) consists of the largest group of
children with mental retardation due to a single
recognizable syndrome. Once the diagnosis of DS is
made (by the paediatrician, neonatologist or family
physician), it ushers in a series of investigations for
associated medical problems. This is because in this
syndrome almost every system or organ in the body
needs special attention. Appropriate interventions, if
carried out on time, can reduce complications and
improve the quality of life of these children. It is
therefore important that all doctors caring for
children with Down syndrome are updated with the
latest recommendations and are mindful that they
should avoid inflicting undue hardships on the
family.
This article presents an age specific preventive
medical checklist for use by paediatricians, family
physicians and others. Its objective is to improve the
health of DS children. The educational aspects have
not been included in these guidelines although the
care of DS involves families and educators in
addition to health professionals.
Usually protocols and medical guidelines are the
result of deliberations of committees and experts. I
have put together here accepted current practices
based on standards stipulated by several recognized
medical organizations. They reflect recent advances
acceptance by the Down Syndrome Medical Interest
Group (UK) and American Academy of Paediatrics
in USA. Suitable modifications for local adaptation
have been made taking into account availability of
expertise and referral pathways. It is hoped that these
checklists will constitute a feasible programme of
medical care for children and adolescents with DS
