What causes Brushfield spots?

These spots occur in normal children but are far more frequent in Down’s syndrome (trisomy 21). They were described in 1924 by Thomas Brushfield and are due to aggregation of a normal iris element (connective tissue).” Reference: medterms.com: Medical Dictionary definitions of popular medical terms.

Does everyone have Brushfield spots?

Brushfield spots are a characteristic feature of the chromosomal disorder Down syndrome or trisomy 21. They occur in 35–78% of newborn infants with Down syndrome. Brushfield spots tend to be obscured by pigmentation of the anterior border layer of the iris in patients with darker irides.

Are Brushfield spots harmful?

This includes upward slanting of the eyelids, prominent folds of skin between the eye and the nose, and small white spots present on the iris (the colored part of the eye) called Brushfield’s spots. These spots are harmless, and can be seen in people without Down syndrome as well.

What do Brushfield spots look like?

Brushfield Spots in Down Syndrome A notable sign of down syndrome is the presence of discolorations of the colored part of the eye known as Brushfield spots. These are pale, milky white spots dotting the colored part of an infant’s eye.

Do Brushfield spots affect vision?

Brushfield’s spots: White spots may develop in the iris, which is the colored part of the eye. The spots do not interfere with vision. Tear duct abnormalities: It is common for people with Down syndrome to have abnormalities that involve the tear ducts.

What are 4 symptoms of Down syndrome?

Some common physical features of Down syndrome include:

  • A flattened face, especially the bridge of the nose.
  • Almond-shaped eyes that slant up.
  • A short neck.
  • Small ears.
  • A tongue that tends to stick out of the mouth.
  • Tiny white spots on the iris (colored part) of the eye.
  • Small hands and feet.

Why do downies look the same?

Why do people with Down syndrome look the same? They have an extra chromosome or part of an extra chromosome. Researchers believe that this extra genetic material affects growth of the maxilla (part of the skull) and the bone, cartilage, and connective tissue in the head, known as the cranial neural crest.

Do people with Down syndrome avoid eye contact?

Children with Down syndrome often look down or do not look people in the eye. There are a few reasons this may be occurring. For example, many of these individuals have not learned yet that maintaining eye contact is appropriate and necessary.

Can a child have a mild case of Down syndrome?

Each person with Down syndrome is an individual — intellectual and developmental problems may be mild, moderate or severe.