Question

Mongolism is

• A. Turner syndrome
• B. Klinefelter syndrome
  
• C. Down syndrome
  
• D. Hypothalamic syndrome
  

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Down syndrome

Turner Syndrome is monosomy caused by the absence of one copy of X-chromosome from females. These females carry only single copy of genes present on X-chromosomes and hence are sterile females with the undeveloped breast. The presence of one or more extra copy of X-chromosome in males causes Klinefelter Syndrome. The affected individual has 44+ XXY /44+XXXY / 44+XXXXY chromosomes. The presence of an extra copy of X-chromosome produces some feminine characters in otherwise male individuals. They are sterile feminized males with enlarged breasts (Gynaecomastia). Down Syndrome is trisomy-21, i.e., presence of chromosome 21 in three copies. The affected individuals are mentally retarded (mildly to moderately) and suffer from congenital heart defects with a very high (1/100) risk of acute leukemia. They are short in stature and have a broad, short skull; hyper flexibility of joints; and excess skin on the back of the neck. The presence of these specific characters is termed as mongolism. Damage in the hypothalamus, part of the brain, causes the hypothalamic syndrome that affects the individual by endocrine glands and organ which are under the control of hormones secreted by the hypothalamus, for example, pituitary gland. Thus, the correct answer is option C.