Trisomy 9 is a relatively uncommon chromosome abnormality that may sometimes be seen in the nonmosaic state. We reviewed 23 mosaic and 15 nonmosaic cases of trisomy 9, including 2 new cases, in order to better define the prognosis and phenotype of this disorder. A recognizable trisomy 9 phenotype was identified and included a "bulbous" nose, microphthalmia, and dislocated limbs. Other nonspecific anomalies involving various organ systems were also common. With one exception, all survivors had severe mental impairment. Mosaicism for trisomy 9 predicted longer survival, but the degree of mosaicism in lymphocytes or fibroblasts did not predict survival or degree of impairment. Parental chromosome variations were not uncommon. In contrast to prior reports, no specific prognostic finding was identified. A meiotic origin with loss of a trisomic cell line in mosaic cases is suggested.