Which facial feature is characteristic of Down syndrome?

Which facial feature is characteristic of Down syndrome?

• A. Flattened face with a flat nasal bridge
• B. Ptosis
• C. Large jaw
• D. Protruding ears

Answer: (A)

A flattened face with a flat nasal bridge is a classic facial feature seen in Down syndrome. This results from midface hypoplasia and a depressed nasal bridge, giving a characteristic flattened facial profile. Other options don’t fit this typical pattern: ptosis can occur in many conditions and isn’t characteristic of Down syndrome; a large jaw is not typical (the midface is often underdeveloped); protruding ears are not a hallmark feature (ears tend to be small or low-set). So the flattened facial appearance with a flat nasal bridge best matches Down syndrome.

A flattened face with a flat nasal bridge is a classic facial feature seen in Down syndrome. This results from midface hypoplasia and a depressed nasal bridge, giving a characteristic flattened facial profile. Other options don’t fit this typical pattern: ptosis can occur in many conditions and isn’t characteristic of Down syndrome; a large jaw is not typical (the midface is often underdeveloped); protruding ears are not a hallmark feature (ears tend to be small or low-set). So the flattened facial appearance with a flat nasal bridge best matches Down syndrome.