Fetal alcohol syndrome: A review of the disorder

The adverse effects of maternal alcohol consumption have been noted throughout history. When not resulting in the death of the fetus, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is characterized by growth deficiencies, facial abnormalities, and central nervous system dysfunctions. Both direct and indirect teratogenic effects of alcohol are discussed. Also, the type and severity of alcohol's impact on the fetus are viewed in relation to critical periods during the gestational process. Finally, the severity of maternal alcoholism is related to the severity of damage suffered by the fetus. FAS is seen as the consequence of persistent toxic levels of alcohol throughout the gestational period. Several preventative measures are briefly discussed.