Trisomy 13
Genetic testing for parents
Both parents will need to have their chromosomes analysed if their baby is affected by Patau's syndrome caused by a chromosomal translocation.
Genetic testing is carried out to help parents plan for future pregnancies, rather than as part of the decision making process for the current pregnancy.
The test results will allow a more accurate assessment to be made of the likelihood of the syndrome affecting future pregnancies.
Other family members may also be affected and should be tested.
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Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Find out about Patau's syndrome, also known as trisomy 13, which is a serious genetic disorder where a baby has an extra copy of chromosome 13.
Symptoms and features
Babies with Patau's syndrome can have a wide range of health problems. Their growth in the womb is often restricted, resulting in a low birth weight, and 80% will be born with severe heart defects.
Causes of Patau's syndrome
Patau's syndromehappens by chance and isn't caused by anything the parents have done. Most cases of the syndrome don't run in families (they're not inherited). They occur randomly during conception,
Screening for Patau's syndrome
You'll be offered a screening test for Patau's syndrome as well as Down's syndrome (trisomy 21) and Edwards' syndrome (trisomy 18) from 10-14 weeks of pregnancy. The test assesses your chances of ha
Genetic testing for parents
Both parents will need to have their chromosomes analysed if their baby is affected by Patau's syndrome caused by a chromosomal translocation. Genetic testing is carried out to help parents plan for
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