Which clinical features are noted upon assessing a child with fetal alcohol syndrome? (Select all that apply)
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A reason: Agenesis refers to the absence of an organ due to developmental failure. While structural anomalies may occur in fetal alcohol syndrome, agenesis is not a hallmark feature. Choice B reason: A flat nasal bridge is a common facial characteristic in children with fetal alcohol syndrome. It reflects midfacial hypoplasia due to disrupted embryonic development. Choice C reason: A thin upper lip is one of the classic facial features used in diagnosing fetal alcohol syndrome. It is part of the characteristic facial dysmorphology. Choice D reason: Spina bifida is a neural tube defect and not typically associated with fetal alcohol syndrome. It results from folate deficiency rather than alcohol exposure. Choice E reason: Microcephaly, or a smaller-than-average head size, is frequently observed in fetal alcohol syndrome due to impaired brain development.