Down syndrome: Testing during infancy (age 1 month to 1 year)

Down syndrome can cause a variety of health problems related to physical and mental functions. These problems vary in number and severity for each individual. Your child should have regularly scheduled exams by a doctor to identify signs of any problems. The sooner health issues are recognized, the better they can be managed.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends doctors who care for children with Down syndrome pay special attention to certain health issues between the ages of 1 month and 1 year, such as:¹

• Ear problems. Because your baby has a 50% to 70% risk for developing ear problems, a health professional should regularly inspect his or her ears for signs of fluid behind the eardrum (otitis media with effusion).¹ A hearing specialist (otolaryngologist) should examine your baby if there are indications of hearing problems. A special hearing test (behavioral audiogram) should be given at 1 year of age. The Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (DSMIG) recommends another hearing evaluation at 6 months of age.²
• Eye problems. In addition to a vision test at each checkup, your baby's eyes should be thoroughly examined for problems (strabismus, cataracts, and nystagmus) by 6 months of age. Your baby should be examined by an eye doctor who specializes in children (pediatric ophthalmologist) or who is experienced in caring for children with disabilities.
• Thyroid function. Babies with Down syndrome are at increased risk for thyroid disease and should have a blood test to screen for related problems at 6 months and 12 months (and annually after 1 year of age).
• Growth and weight gain. Your child should be weighed and measured at each visit. These measurements should be plotted on growth charts that have been adjusted for children with Down syndrome.
• Immunizations. Your baby should be given all immunizations according to the normal schedule unless there are special health concerns identified by your doctor.

Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH	Last Updated: August 9, 2007
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics David Smith, MD - Family Medicine
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