Fetal alcohol syndrome: diagnosis, management, and prevention

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and fetal alcohol effects (FAE) encompass a pattern of birth defects in persons whose mother ingested alcohol during pregnancy. Persons with FAE display fewer of the FAS traits. The hallmarks of FAS are pre- and postnatal growth retardation, central nervous system dysfunction, and characteristic facial dysmorphology. However, its effects can be multi-systemic--encompassing the cardiac, skeletal, and muscular systems, as well as presenting as lack of coordination, hyperactivity, diminished or distorted sense of danger, and lack of ability to function as an independent adult. The frequent incidence of this constellation of symptoms has a far-reaching impact (familial, medical, educational, and societal) because a myriad of professionals and large amounts of funding are used to help manage FAS/FAE children and adults. This article identifies, for a primary care provider, the essential characteristics of FAS/FAE and discusses available management options. Early diagnosis and continued education are advantageous at all levels, benefiting the individual and all of society.