Head and Facial Abnormalities

Abstract

Although there is considerable variation in individual craniofacial features, the overall pattern of these features is often distinctive enough to provide a basis for a diagnosis of fetal alcohol syndrome. Clarren and Smith1 regard short palpebral fissures, hypoplastic upper lip with thinned vermilion, and diminished to absent philtrum as key facial features. Majewski2 also considers the philtrum and upper lip as key features but minimizes the importance of palpebral fissures. Instead, he emphasizes the short, upturned nose. Other facial features are listed in Table 13. Some of these facial features are evident in Figures 11a–11e.