Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Which of the following is NOT a classic symptom of Down syndrome?

1. Congenital heart disease

2. Atlantoaxial instability

3. Osteoporosis

4. Melanoma

The correct answer is: Melanoma

Melanoma is not considered a classic symptom associated with Down syndrome. Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is characterized by a set of physical and health-related features commonly seen in affected individuals. Typical symptoms include congenital heart disease, which occurs in a significant percentage of those with the condition, and atlantoaxial instability, a condition involving increased movement between the first and second cervical vertebrae that can lead to neurological complications. Osteoporosis, while not as directly associated with Down syndrome as the other symptoms, may still occur in individuals with the condition due to factors such as reduced mobility and other comorbidities. However, melanoma does not have a recognized association with Down syndrome and is not part of the typical clinical picture. Therefore, it stands out as the option that does not align with the well-documented symptoms of Down syndrome.