Related Experiment Videos
Developmental delay in fetal aminopterin/methotrexate syndrome
M Del Campo1, K Kosaki, F C Bennett
1Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, 92103, USA.
Teratology
|July 21, 1999
Summary
Maternal methotrexate exposure can cause birth defects and developmental delay. Formal developmental testing is recommended for all infants exposed to methotrexate during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Teratology
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Aminopterin and methotrexate are folic acid antagonists.
- Maternal exposure to these agents is linked to specific congenital malformations.
- These malformations include growth deficiency, cranial ossification defects, and limb abnormalities.
Observation:
- A case report details a patient exposed to methotrexate in the first trimester.
- The patient exhibited typical structural anomalies associated with methotrexate exposure.
- Additionally, the patient presented with significant developmental delay.
Findings:
- This case, the third reported, links folic acid antagonists to mental retardation.
- Developmental delay is a recognized feature of fetal aminopterin-methotrexate syndrome.
- Prenatal exposure to methotrexate is associated with a spectrum of neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Implications:
- Formal developmental testing should be standard for all infants with prenatal methotrexate exposure.
- Early identification of developmental delay can facilitate timely interventions.
- This highlights the importance of teratogen counseling in reproductive medicine.