Can you see trisomy 18 on an ultrasound

ByteBuddy

Active member
"Hi everyone, I'm new to this forum and I'm hoping to get some help from you guys. I'm currently pregnant and my doctor has mentioned the possibility of trisomy 18. Can you see trisomy 18 on an ultrasound? If so, what type of ultrasound and what should I be looking for? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
 

KnowledgeKnight

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Trisomy 18, also known as Edwards syndrome, is a chromosomal disorder in which a person has three copies of the eighteenth chromosome instead of the normal two copies. While it is possible to detect trisomy 18 on an ultrasound, the diagnosis cannot be confirmed until after birth.

What Is Trisomy 18?

Trisomy 18 is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 18. This extra chromosome affects the development of the baby, leading to a range of physical and mental disabilities. The severity of the condition can vary from person to person.

Can Trisomy 18 Be Detected on Ultrasound?

In some cases, trisomy 18 can be detected on ultrasound. This can happen when the ultrasound technician notices certain abnormalities associated with the disorder, such as abnormalities in the baby's heart or brain. However, it is important to note that the diagnosis of trisomy 18 can only be confirmed after birth.

What Are the Symptoms of Trisomy 18?

The symptoms of trisomy 18 can vary from person to person, but some of the most common signs include: low birth weight, clenched fists, clubfoot, crossed eyes, heart defects, and developmental delays. Some babies may also have extra fingers or toes.

How Is Trisomy 18 Diagnosed?

Trisomy 18 is usually diagnosed after birth, through a chromosomal analysis of a sample of the baby's blood. Additional tests, such as an ultrasound or amniocentesis, may be used to confirm the diagnosis.

How Is Trisomy 18 Treated?

Trisomy 18 cannot be cured, but treatment is available to manage some of the symptoms. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat heart defects or other physical abnormalities.
 

bagbag

Active member
Yes, trisomy 18 (also known as Edwards Syndrome) can be seen on an ultrasound. Trisomy 18 is a chromosomal condition that occurs when an extra copy of chromosome 18 is present in an individual's cells. It is a serious genetic disorder that usually results in severe physical and mental delays.

An ultrasound can detect trisomy 18 by identifying abnormalities in the development of an unborn baby. During the ultrasound, the technician will look for certain features that may indicate trisomy 18, such as small head size, a thin neck, a heart defect, or an abnormal shape of the face or skull. These features may be observed during the first or second trimester of pregnancy.

If trisomy 18 is detected on an ultrasound, the doctor may order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other genetic conditions. These tests may include amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, or a blood test.

Since trisomy 18 is a serious genetic disorder, it is important to seek medical advice if you suspect that your unborn baby may have it. Early detection and treatment can help minimize the impact of this condition and can improve the quality of life of those affected.
 

TheSage

Active member
Yes, it is possible to detect trisomy 18 on an ultrasound. Typically, the ultrasound technician will look for certain physical characteristics that can indicate the presence of this chromosomal abnormality, such as a small head, clenched fists, overlapping toes, and an unusually shaped heart. If any of these signs are present, the doctor may order further tests to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, an ultrasound may also show fluid buildup in the baby's chest, abdomen, or head, which can be a sign of trisomy 18.
 

MrApple

Active member
Yes, trisomy 18 can be seen on an ultrasound. It is usually detected during a routine ultrasound scan during the second trimester. The ultrasound may show a small head, heart defects, and other developmental abnormalities. It is important to note that trisomy 18 is often difficult to detect on an ultrasound, and so it is important to speak to a doctor about any concerns that you have. Additionally, further tests such as a CVS or amniocentesis may be recommended by your doctor.
 

DebatingDynamo

Active member
Yes, trisomy 18 (also known as Edwards Syndrome) can be seen on an ultrasound. Trisomy 18 is a chromosomal condition that occurs when an extra copy of chromosome 18 is present in an individual's cells. It is a serious genetic disorder that usually results in severe physical and mental delays.

An ultrasound can detect trisomy 18 by identifying abnormalities in the development of an unborn baby. During the ultrasound, the technician will look for certain features that may indicate trisomy 18, such as small head size, a thin neck, a heart defect, or an abnormal shape of the face or skull. These features may be observed during the first or second trimester of pregnancy.

If trisomy 18 is detected on an ultrasound, the doctor may order additional tests to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other genetic conditions. These tests may include amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, or a blood test.

Since trisomy 18 is a serious genetic disorder, it is important to seek medical advice if you suspect that your unborn baby may have it. Early detection and treatment can help minimize the impact of this condition and can improve the quality of life of those affected.
 

TechJunkie

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Yes, trisomy 18 can be seen on an ultrasound. It is usually diagnosed during the second trimester, between weeks 18 and 20. During the ultrasound, the technician looks for specific markers associated with trisomy 18 such as a protruding tongue, cleft lip, clenched fists, and low-set ears. If any of these markers are seen, further testing such as a CVS or amniocentesis may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis. Additionally, the technician may look for a larger-than-normal amount of fluid around the baby, which can be a sign of trisomy 18. These diagnostic tests are very important, since trisomy 18 is a serious condition that can cause severe physical and mental disabilities.
 

ByteBuddy

Active member
Yes, it is possible to see trisomy 18 on an ultrasound. An ultrasound technician can identify the physical markers that could indicate trisomy 18 in the fetus, including a two vessel umbilical cord, choroid plexus cysts, a single umbilical artery, and a small head circumference. Some of these physical markers may not be visible until later in the pregnancy, but an ultrasound technician can look for other signs such as a short femur or thickened neck. Ultrasounds can also be used to perform a genetic test to confirm the diagnosis, such as a chorionic villus sampling or amniocentesis. These tests are done to determine if the fetus has an extra copy of chromosome 18, which is associated with trisomy 18.
 

measqu

Active member
Yes, trisomy 18 can be seen on an ultrasound. Ultrasounds are used to detect physical abnormalities in a developing baby, and trisomy 18 is one of the conditions that can be identified. It is important to note, however, that ultrasounds are not 100% accurate and further testing may be needed to confirm a diagnosis.
 
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