Fetal alcohol syndrome

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is the medical term for the varied, but often devastating, effects that alcohol consumption during pregnancy can cause.

Mental retardation, facial deformities, and stunted physical and emotional development are some of the birth defects it can cause. Not all pregnant mothers that drink alcohol give birth to babies with FAS. Researchers believe that timing is the key, and that the risk is highest early in the pregnancy. No amount of alcohol, during any trimester, is absolutely safe.

The Face of FAS

The facial features of a child with FAS are distinctive and diagnostically significant. The three key facial features are:

1. Small palpebral fissure lengths (PFL). Palpebral fissures are the opening of the eyelids. These are measured from between the exocanthion and endocanthion of each eye.
2. A thin upper lip.
3. Smooth philtrum. The philtrum is the vertical "divot" or groove between your nose and upper lip.

External links

• Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Diagnostic & Prevention Network (FAS DPN) (http://depts.washington.edu/fasdpn/)

fr:Syndrome d'alcoolisation fœtale

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