Down syndrome: a multidisciplinary perspective

Trisomy 21, a genetic disorder resulting from a chromosomal abnormality, is one of the most common forms of mental disability in the United States. Individuals with Down syndrome frequently present with a constellation of medical problems including conductive hearing loss and, to a lesser degree, sensorineural hearing loss. As part of a health care team, audiologists must be sensitive to and aware of medical conditions prior to establishing intervention strategies. Medical conditions, by necessity, precede audiologic interventions and, therefore, a close working relationship among team members is critical. Yet, audiologic and communication interventions should be established at the earliest possible time for maximizing an individual's development potential. This article stresses the importance of a multidisciplinary team in the provision of services so that prevention of further disabilities, improved outcomes of medical interventions, and appropriate habilitative and educational planning may ensue.