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Characteristic facial features from fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD)

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By Debby Golonka, MPH

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Children who were exposed to alcohol during fetal development often develop distinctive facial features that may include:

  • A small head and flat face.
  • Narrow eye openings (slits).
  • A short, upturned nose.
  • A flattened groove between the nose and the upper lip (philtrum).
  • A thin upper lip.

Unless the effects of alcohol exposure are severe, these traits often aren't noticed until the child is about 2 or 3 years of age. Gradually, many of these features become less noticeable starting in the teen years. However, a larger-than-average nose may become noticeable by adulthood.

Credits

Author Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Associate Editor Terrina Vail
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Ernest L. Abel, PhD - Reproductive Toxicology
Last Updated April 2, 2007
Last Updated: 04/02/2007