Down's Syndrome Characteristic Features

Despite the variability in Down's syndrome, individuals with Down's syndrome have a widely recognized characteristic appearance. Typical facial features include a flattened nose, small mouth, protruding tongue, small ears, and upward slanting eyes. The inner corner of the eyes may have a rounded fold of skin (epicanthal fold). The hands are short and broad with short fingers, and may have a single palmar crease. White spots on the colored part of the eye called Brushfield spots may be present. Babies with Down's syndrome often have decreased muscle tone at birth. Normal growth and development is usually delayed and often individuals with Down's syndrome don't reach the average height or developmental milestones of unaffected individuals.