Pediatric HESI 2023 Related

Review Pediatric HESI 2023 related questions and content

When teaching a class about trisomy 21, the instructor would identify the cause of this disorder as:

  • A. nondisjunction.
  • B. X-linked recessive inheritance.
  • C. genomic imprinting.
  • D. autosomal dominant inheritance.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Trisomy 21, also known as Down syndrome, is caused by nondisjunction, which is an error in cell division that leads to the presence of an extra chromosome 21. This additional chromosome alters the normal genetic makeup, resulting in the characteristics associated with Down syndrome. Therefore, the correct answer is nondisjunction (Choice A). Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because Trisomy 21 is not caused by X-linked recessive inheritance, genomic imprinting, or autosomal dominant inheritance. Understanding the specific genetic mechanism involved in Trisomy 21 is crucial for grasping the basis of this chromosomal disorder.