Citation:
Pestell CF, Fitzpatrick J. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in Australia: Practice guidelines for diagnosis and management. Australian Doctor. 2017;19 May 2017:25-6
Abstract:
Alcohol is a teratogen and causes damage to the fetal CNS and other organ systems. This may result in significant neurocognitive impairment, prenatal and postnatal growth impairment as well as a syndrome of mid-face abnormalities. Disorders characterised by these features are collectively termed fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). However, it must be noted that some individuals with FASD do not have growth restriction or characteristic facial features.
While higher levels of alcohol consumption increase the likelihood of FASD, it is not known if there is a safe level of alcohol use in pregnancy. Animal studies have shown low-level exposure may lead to loss of fetal brain cells. There is emerging evidence that alcohol use during pregnancy can have epigenetic effects that may be transmitted to future generations.