Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

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Introduction

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) describes the full range of effects resulting from alcohol during pregnancy, and is one of the commonest causes of global developmental delay in the world.

FAS occurs at a prevalence of 1:300. It is diagnosed by:

strong evidence of maternal drinking during pregnancy
growth deficiency - ongoing low birth weight and/or height
abnormal craniofacial features - small head, thin upper lip, elongated, smooth philtrum, short palpebral fissures
CNS and neurobehavioural dysfunction - hyperactivity, attention deficit, learning disabilities, cognitive disabilities, fine motor problems

Cardiac and renal problems, along with hypospadias, can occur.

FASD causes some, but not all the signs of FAS, and can be difficult to diagnose. Normal stature is common, with mild facial features being frequent. These become more subtle with age.