Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is a group of disorders caused by alcohol exposure in utero, leading to permanent birth defects and developmental disorders. There is no cure, and diagnosis can only be made after birth. Treatment is nonspecific and varies depending on the severity of symptoms.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is the clinical term for a group of disorders that can occur when a fetus is exposed to alcohol while in utero. Women who consume alcohol during pregnancy put their unborn child at risk for FASD-related permanent birth defects and developmental disorders. There is no cure for any form of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
While in utero, a fetus is unable to metabolize substances as quickly as the mother. The effects of alcohol consumption by the mother can adversely affect the development of the fetus as early as the first trimester. Although any use of alcohol can put a fetus at risk for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, the possibility of alcohol-related birth defects increases with the mother’s consumption of alcohol.
A diagnosis of any classification of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder can only be made after the baby is born. Women who drink during pregnancy are encouraged to be honest about their alcohol consumption so their obstetrician can assess the fetus’ risk for FASD. Once the baby is born, knowledge of the mother’s drinking can also be invaluable to the baby’s pediatrician, who can detect any alcohol-related problems that may arise during the baby’s development. The sooner a diagnosis is made, the better.
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder includes three distinct diagnoses. Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) affects a baby’s overall development. Children with this diagnosis will demonstrate impaired mental, physical, and emotional development and lifelong problems that require special supportive care. A diagnosis of alcohol-related birth defects (ARBD) is generally reserved for those children who have physical deformities. Children can be diagnosed with alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND) if they have primarily behavioral problems and mental retardation, including a pronounced learning disability.
Babies born with a diagnosis that falls under the classification of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder will show a variety of signs and symptoms depending on the severity of their condition. Individuals with FASD will generally exhibit distinctive physical characteristics and joint deformities. Most will demonstrate some degree of sensory impairment that negatively affects vision, hearing and/or speech. It is not uncommon for children with FASD or partial fetal alcohol syndrome to show problems with coordination, development, as well as learning and behavioral problems. Many babies born with fetal alcohol syndrome have some presentation of congenital heart abnormalities.
Treatment for any diagnosis of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is nonspecific at best. Each presentation of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder is different and so should be the treatment. Depending on the extent of symptoms, behavior and cognitive impairment, a single management approach will typically be required along with supportive therapies and counseling for both the child and the parent. Physical therapy may be recommended for individuals with pronounced joint deformities to maintain range of motion and promote flexibility. Babies born with a congenital heart defect may require corrective surgery to promote proper cardiovascular function.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
