What causes Edwards syndrome?

Prepare for the Semmelweis Medicine Biology Entrance Exam. Test your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What causes Edwards syndrome?

Explanation:
Edwards syndrome is caused by trisomy 18 — an extra copy of chromosome 18 in the body's cells. This usually happens when chromosomes fail to separate properly during egg formation (nondisjunction), giving the fertilized egg 47 chromosomes. The extra genetic material disrupts development, leading to multiple congenital anomalies and severe impairment; most affected infants do not survive beyond the first year. This is different from Down syndrome, which comes from an extra chromosome 21, and from scenarios with a missing chromosome (monosomy), which have their own distinct and typically more severe consequences.

Edwards syndrome is caused by trisomy 18 — an extra copy of chromosome 18 in the body's cells. This usually happens when chromosomes fail to separate properly during egg formation (nondisjunction), giving the fertilized egg 47 chromosomes. The extra genetic material disrupts development, leading to multiple congenital anomalies and severe impairment; most affected infants do not survive beyond the first year. This is different from Down syndrome, which comes from an extra chromosome 21, and from scenarios with a missing chromosome (monosomy), which have their own distinct and typically more severe consequences.

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