Decreased sexual development, thyroid dysfunction and hearing loss are also among common complications. Physically, a child with Down syndrome typically has a small head and broad, flat face, with slanting eyes and short nose. The hands are broad and short and the fingers are short. The only way to determine if a fetus will be born with Down syndrome is to do amniocentesis. There is no specific treatment available for Down syndrome.
Treatment is directed toward specific problems, such as surgery for cardiac problems.
Infant stimulation programs, special education and occupational training help affected children develop to their full potential. Your nephew can and should be tested for the disorder by a blood test for trisomy 21. However, unless the level of Down syndrome is minimal and therefore not easily detectable, the family should have been advised of the boy's potential condition before now. In this particular case, find out if the tech's suspicions are correct. And don't put off getting that information.