Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) /ˈfiːtəl ˈælkəhɔːl ˈspɛktrəm dɪsˈɔːrdər/ is a group of conditions that can occur in a person whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. Problems may include an abnormal appearance, short height, low body weight, small head size, poor coordination, low intelligence, behavior problems, and problems with hearing or seeing.
Etymology
The term "Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder" was coined in 2004 to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual who was prenatally exposed to alcohol. The term "Fetal" refers to the unborn child, "Alcohol" refers to the substance consumed by the mother, and "Spectrum Disorder" indicates the range of potential outcomes.
Related Terms
- Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS): The severe end of the FASD spectrum. FAS babies have physical abnormalities and problems with behavior and learning.
- Partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (pFAS): Individuals with pFAS have some, but not all, of the symptoms of FAS.
- Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder (ARND): People with ARND might have intellectual disabilities and problems with behavior and learning.
- Alcohol-Related Birth Defects (ARBD): People with ARBD might have problems with the heart, kidneys, or bones or with hearing.
Causes
FASD is caused by a woman drinking alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol in the mother's blood passes to the baby through the umbilical cord. There is no known safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy or when trying to get pregnant.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of FASD is based on the presence of certain criteria such as facial abnormalities, growth problems, and central nervous system problems. It is not necessary for a person to have all these symptoms to be diagnosed with FASD.
Treatment
There is no cure for FASD. Treatment is focused on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. This may include medication, behavioral therapy, and special education.
Prevention
The only sure way to prevent FASD is to abstain from alcohol use during pregnancy.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
- Wikipedia's article - Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
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