Hello doctor, Do you have experience with FAS/FASD? Can prenatal exposure to alcohol cause a short columella? Is this common in those with the affected face?
Hi. We do see cases of fetal alcohol syndrome or fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Alcohol is a known teratogen for the human fetus. Consumption of alcohol during pregnancy is associated with abnormalities in the fetus. The problems can occur in many systems, most importantly facial changes, heart abnormalities, kidney abnormalities and neurological (structural or functional) abnormalities. Three findings are common in facial abnormalities: 1. Smooth philtrum (a groove seen from the bottom of the nose to the upper lip will look flat). 2. Thin upper lip. 3. Narrow palpebral fissures of eyes. Short collumella can be an associated feature, but that alone cannot be used to label the diagnosis as fetal alcohol syndrome.