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Fatal Intestinal Obstruction in a Patient With Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Cassandra Maria Wygant1, Stephen D Cohle
1From the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Spectrum Health Blodgett Campus, Grand Rapids, MI.
The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology
|January 10, 2019
Summary
A child with fetal alcohol syndrome died from intestinal dilation and asphyxia. This case highlights potential causes of intestinal issues in fetal alcohol syndrome patients.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pathology
- Gastroenterology
- Genetics
Background:
- Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a spectrum of birth defects caused by maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
- Intestinal complications are not commonly associated with FAS, but can occur.
- Pica, the compulsive eating of non-food items, can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
Observation:
- An 8-year-old boy with a history of FAS and pica was found deceased.
- The autopsy revealed massive intestinal dilatation as the cause of death.
- The intestinal dilation led to asphyxia.
Findings:
- Massive intestinal dilatation was identified as the direct cause of death.
- The potential link between fetal alcohol syndrome and intestinal dilation is explored.
- Pathogenetic mechanisms for intestinal dilation in FAS are discussed.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing potential gastrointestinal complications in children with FAS.
- Further research into the pathogenetic mechanisms of intestinal dilation in FAS is warranted.
- Early identification and management of gastrointestinal issues may improve outcomes for children with FAS.
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