New insights in Foetal Alcohol Syndrome : a literature review

Abstract

Foetal Alcohol Syndrome falls under the umbrella of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders which are caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. Foetal Alcohol Syndrome is characterised by craniofacial abnormalities, central nervous system abnormalities and growth deficiencies. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy is teratogenic causing issues in multiple aspects of neurological development in the foetus. It is a vital preventable cause of mental disability in the West. The main craniofacial abnormalities that are present in Foetal Alcohol Syndrome include a thin vermillion border, short palpebral fissures and a smooth philtrum. Alcohol exposure can also cause various epigenetic changes in the developing foetus. This alters gene expression resulting in various abnormalities in different organs and may also affect future behaviour. Prenatal alcohol exposure also affects brain morphology and biochemistry. Alcohol alters survival, migration and function of various cells in the brain. It also alters the Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid system, a vital neurotransmitter system in the brain. Brain neovascularisation is also altered with consequences on brain perfusion. This literature review shall highlight various effects of alcohol on craniofacial development, epigenetics, glia, the gamma-aminobutyric system, neovascularisation, and cell death in the developing foetus.