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FASD The Course > Module 2: Effects of Alcohol on the Fetus > 14. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Page 2

Please Select One 1. Module Description 2. Learning Objectives 3. Pretest 4. Introduction 5. Transmission of Alcohol to the Fetus 6. Risky Consumption Levels 7. Types of Alcohol That Can Cause Damage 8. Alcohol-Related Brain Damage 9. Brain Anatomy 10. Central Nervous System Damage 11. Organ and Skeletal Damage 12. Conditions Caused by Prenatal Alcohol Exposure 13. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Page 1 14. Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Page 2 15. Alcohol-Related Neurodevelopmental Disorder 16. Alcohol-Related Birth Defects 17. Diagnostic Issues 18. Matching Activity Part 1 19. Matching Activity Part 2 20. Posttest 21. References

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Module 2: Effects of Alcohol on the Fetus

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Some features seen in FAS, such as epicanthal folds, short jaw, and short nose, occur naturally in certain ethnic groups. Therefore, without knowing a person's background, it should not be assumed that a child has FAS based on these characteristics. Features specific to FAS, such as a flat philtrum, need to be seen.

To view an FAS facial anomalies demo, visit www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/pblonline/fas.htm 

According to the Institute of Medicine, partial FAS is sometimes used to describe individuals who have some of the facial features associated with FAS in addition to confirmed maternal alcohol exposure and evidence of one of the following: growth retardation, brain damage, or behavioral or cognitive abnormalities. When facial features of FAS are present, it is possible to diagnose FAS without confirming maternal alcohol exposure.¹⁹

 Video: Ann Streissguth, PhD, discusses the varying effects of alcohol on the fetus.

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