[The fetal hydantoin syndrome].

Area of Science:

• Teratology
• Developmental Biology
• Clinical Genetics

Background:

• Epilepsy management during pregnancy often involves anticonvulsant medications.
• Hydantoin is a commonly prescribed anticonvulsant with known teratogenic potential.
• Understanding drug effects on fetal development is crucial for prenatal care.

Observation:

• A case report details a male infant exhibiting nail and fingertip dysplasia/hypoplasia.
• The infant's mother was treated with hydantoin for epilepsy throughout her pregnancy.
• Clinical and radiological examinations revealed features consistent with fetal hydantoin syndrome.

Findings:

• Prenatal exposure to hydantoin can lead to specific congenital anomalies, including limb malformations.
• Fetal hydantoin syndrome encompasses a spectrum of developmental abnormalities.
• The reported case provides further evidence linking hydantoin use in pregnancy to adverse fetal outcomes.

Implications:

• Routine ultrasound examinations for fetuses exposed to hydantoin are recommended.
• Monitoring maternal serum folate levels during hydantoin therapy in pregnancy is advised.
• This case underscores the importance of risk-benefit assessment for medications during gestation.