What is a common association with Trisomy 18 or Edward's Syndrome?

Trisomy 18, also known as Edward's syndrome, is characterized by a range of congenital anomalies, with single umbilical artery being a noted association. In the general population, a normal umbilical cord contains two arteries and one vein. However, in babies with Trisomy 18, there is an increased incidence of having a single umbilical artery, which can be indicative of underlying chromosomal abnormalities.

This characteristic is important as it may lead healthcare providers to consider further genetic evaluation when detected during prenatal imaging or postnatal examination. Single umbilical artery can be associated with other potential complications, including congenital heart defects and other malformations, which are prevalent in Trisomy 18.

The other options, while they may be associated with various congenital conditions, are not commonly linked specifically with Trisomy 18. Macroglossia, cleft lip and palate, and holoprosencephaly are more closely associated with other syndromes—for example, macroglossia is typically more observed in conditions such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, and holoprosencephaly is often associated with chromosomal abnormalities, such as those in Trisomy 13. Thus, recognizing the association between