Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is characterized by which triad?

• A. Facial dysmorphology, growth deficiency, CNS involvement
• B. Cardiac defects, limb abnormalities, CNS involvement
• C. Hearing loss, seizures, growth deficiency
• D. Microcephaly, behavioral problems, facial features

Answer: (A)

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome is defined by a triad: facial dysmorphology, growth deficiency, and central nervous system involvement. Alcohol exposure during pregnancy disrupts early craniofacial development, leading to distinct facial features; it also causes growth restriction and persistent growth issues; and it damages brain development, resulting in structural brain changes and neurodevelopmental problems. The best answer captures all three components of this well-known pattern. Other options may include features seen in other conditions or individual symptoms, but they do not reflect this classic three-part pattern.