Continuing Medical Education The 137th Scientific Meeting of the Chinese Taipei Pediatric Association Continuing Medical Education: Congenital Anomalies in Taiwan-Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a constellation of anomalies caused by fetal alcohol exposure. When the anomalies are to a lesser extent, the disorder is called fetal alcohol effect (FAE). Whether it is FAS or FAE, the prevalence is worldwide, though the syndrome is often failed to be recognized by the physicians and/or medical personels. In Taiwan, several cases of FAS have been found including one family with more than one child affected, and one family of aborigines. The etiology and pathophysiology of FAS remain unknown. In general, the more the alcohol exposure, the severer the clinical conditions. There is, however, no amount of alcohol that has been proven to be safe. The clincal features are variable, with prenatal and postnatal growth deficiencies, neurological dysfunctions, characteristic face, and various anatomical defects of multiple organs. The treatment is, unfortunately, less than satisfactory. Thus, prevention is still of prime importance.