Common Characteristics of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

Facial abnormalities

A number of facial anomalies may be seen in individuals with prenatal alcohol exposure, but the three key features are considered to be:  short palpebral fissures, a smooth philtrum, and a thin vermillion border or upper lip.

Growth deficiencies

In general, the growth of children with FAS is between the 5th and 15th percentile. Generally 10th percentile in height or weight is now accepted as an appropriate growth criterion. Some catch-up growth does occur in adolescence, mainly in weight and less so in height.

Central nervous system dysfunction:

Structural abnormalities (such as microcephaly), neurological problems, general cognitive delay and/or other functional impairments (such as problems in learning and memory, executive functioning, fine and gross motor skills, inattention and/or hyperactivity, speech and language)

Disabilities secondary to the neurocognitive impairments associated with prenatal alcohol exposure may include psychiatric problems, school failure, social skills deficits, delinquency and legal problems, alcohol and other drug abuse