Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

Codes

ICD-10: Q86.0

ORPHA: 1915

General information

Estimated occurrence

200:100,000 live births

Cause

FAS occurs when the fetus has been subjected to alcohol during gestation.

General symptoms

Four criteria have to be met for the diagnosis to be made:

the mother has abused or been addicted to alcohol during pregnancy
typical facial features
inhibited growth
central nervous system/brain symptoms.

Concentration difficulties, hyperactivity, sleep disorders and learning difficulties are common. Several organs may be affected, e.g. the heart, skeleton, kidneys and eyes. What damage is done depends on when during pregnancy the fetus was subjected to alcohol.

Orofacial/odontological symptoms

Characteristic facial features are associated with the syndrome. Cleft lip and palate, underbite, and dental development disruptions occur. Some children with FAS have problems with their oral motor function, affecting speech and eating development.

Advice on follow-up and treatment

Early contact with dental services for intensified prophylactic care and oral hygiene information is essential in cases of difficulty with managing dental treatment and tooth brushing.
Regular check-ups of dental and jaw development. Orthodontist should be consulted when needed.
Oral motor training and stimulation may be appropriate in cases of eating difficulties, speaking difficulties and reduced saliva control.
Speech, language and communication training is often warranted.

Sources

Updated: 2019-11-12 14:45