What is the Difference Between Edward and Patau Syndrome?

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Edward's Syndrome (Trisomy 18 or T18) and Patau's Syndrome (Trisomy 13 or T13) are rare but very serious genetic conditions caused by chromosomal abnormalities known as trisomies, where there are three copies of a particular chromosome instead of the usual two. The main differences between the two syndromes are the specific chromosome affected and the associated symptoms and survival rates:

Edward's Syndrome (Trisomy 18):

  • Occurs in 3 out of every 10,000 births.
  • Caused by an extra copy of chromosome 18 in all or some cells.
  • Babies with Edwards' syndrome have a low birth weight and may experience problems with their heart, respiratory system, kidneys, and digestive system.
  • Survival rates are low, with only around 13% of babies born alive surviving.

Patau's Syndrome (Trisomy 13):

  • Occurs in 2 out of every 10,000 births.
  • Caused by an extra copy of chromosome 13 in all or some cells.
  • Babies with Patau's syndrome may have heart problems, a cleft lip and palate, growth problems, and be unable to stand or walk.
  • They may also have poorly formed eyes and ears.
  • Survival rates are low, and those babies born alive typically have a short life expectancy.

Both Edward's and Patau's syndromes can be identified through a blood test and an ultrasound scan during the first trimester of pregnancy, known as the combined test. This test measures the levels of certain hormones and the amount of fluid at the back of the baby's neck (nuchal translucency) to determine the risk of the baby having one of these conditions.

Comparative Table: Edward vs Patau Syndrome

Edward Syndrome and Patau Syndrome are two different forms of trisomy, which are chromosomal abnormalities characterized by the presence of an extra chromosome. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two syndromes:

Feature Edward Syndrome (Trisomy 18) Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13)
Chromosome Involved Chromosome 18 Chromosome 13
Prevalence Affects about one in 1,100 pregnancies Affects around one in 3,000 pregnancies
Characteristics - Physical irregularity of the kidneys, ureters, heart, lungs, and diaphragm - Small skull (microcephaly), abnormal opening in the skull, malformations of part of the brain, structural defects of the eyes, cleft lip or cleft palate, additional toes or fingers (polydactyly), congenital heart disorders, neural tube defect (myelomeningocele), and malformations of the sex organs
Survival Survival beyond the neonatal period is uncommon Some babies may survive, but they have growth problems, heart problems, and are unable to stand or walk

The severity of these syndromes varies among individuals, and there is no cure for these genetic conditions. Supportive therapy is the primary form of treatment.