In summary, we have shown that persons with Down syndrome have features of premature aging that can be appreciated on simple inspection of routine spin-echo MR imaging sequences. Atrophic changes and white matter lesions are more prevalent and more severe in persons with Down syndrome as compared with age- and sex-matched control subjects. T2 hypointensity of the basal ganglia is also identified more frequently and at a younger age in persons with Down syndrome than in control subjects. This abnormal T2 hypointensity of the basal ganglia is often the earliest detectable marker of premature aging.

Posted on July 18th, 2007 by Gerald M. Roth
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Parents of children with Down syndrome and autistic spectrum disorder (DS-ASD) are especially in need of these tips because there is so little information available about this dual diagnosis for parents or professionals. As parents, you become comfortable accommodating your child’s learning style based on information about Down syndrome and your own experiences. Then the latter diagnosis, autistic spectrum disorder, is superimposed on the first. At this point many parents are overwhelmed. They feel as though all hope for modification is lost. However, if you approach your child’s behavioral difficulties that are often associated with autistic spectrum from a systematic, behavioral perspective, you will feel renewed hope for not only behavioral management, but also for skill development.

Posted on July 8th, 2007 by Riverbend Down Syndrome Parent Support Group
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