Regression in young adults with Down's syndrome. A three cases review

Abstract

A deterioration in some of their cognitive functions and adaptive skills has been observed in adolescents and young adults with Down's syndrome (DS), which is similar to that observed in individuals who suffer from Alzheimer's disease, although at much earlier ages. Little is known of the etiology of these changes. In this work, 3 cases are presented on 3 young adults with DS, who presented with a deterioration in their cognitive functions and a loss of, previously well attained, functional skills. Some medical and psychological risk factors that could be associated with this regression are examined. In all the cases, the loss of skills was associated with anxiety and depression symptoms.