Trisomy Trisomy

Trisomy - Definition and Overview

A trisomy means the presence of three (instead of the normal two) chromosomes of a particular numbered type in an organism. Thus the presence of three chromosome 21s is called trisomy 21. Most trisomies result in a number of birth defects (which are often present in most individuals with a particular extra chromosome). Many trisomies result in early death (if not a miscarriage). A partial trisomy occurs when part of an extra chromosome (instead of a whole one), is attached to one of the other chromosomes. A mosaic trisomy is a condition where not all cells contain extra chromosomal material.

While a trisomy can occur with any chromosome, the most common types (in humans) are:

Trisomy involving sex chromosomes include:

See also:

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