Trisomy 13, also known as Patau syndrome, is a chromosomal condition that affects a person's physical and mental development. It is a rare genetic disorder caused by having an extra copy of chromosome 13 in some or all of a person's cells. The extra chromosome causes developmental delays and physical abnormalities, and can result in a range of serious health problems.
Patau syndrome is one of the three most common trisomy syndromes, along with Trisomy 18 and Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome). It is the least common of the three, occurring in around 1 in 10,000 live births.
Patau syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 13 in some or all of a person's cells. This extra chromosome is believed to be inherited from one parent, and can be passed on to the child through the egg or sperm. The extra chromosome disrupts the normal development of the baby, leading to a variety of physical and mental abnormalities.
Common physical features of Patau syndrome include cleft lip/palate, extra fingers or toes, low-set ears, small head size, and abnormalities of the eyes, heart, and other organs. Intellectual disabilities and developmental delays are also common in individuals with Patau syndrome.
Patau syndrome is a very serious condition, and most babies with the disorder are stillborn or die shortly after birth. Those who survive usually have significant health problems that require ongoing medical care.
In summary, trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) is a rare genetic disorder caused by having an extra copy of chromosome 13 in some or all of a person's cells. It can cause a wide range of physical and mental abnormalities, and often results in stillbirth or death shortly after birth. Those who survive usually require ongoing medical care.