Definition:
Fetal thalidomide syndrome primarily results from the utero exposure to thalidomide. This medical condition is typically characterized the anomalies in the mental function and fetal growth, as well as other abnormalities that may include facial, cardiac, limb, kidney, anal, spinal and CNS. Preganant women who are exposed to thalidomide during the first trimester of pregnancy has 10-15% of risk of embryopathy.
Diagnosis:
Fetal thalidomide syndrome is first diagnosed through the use of ultrasound examination during the first 17 weeks of gestation, which may already show visible abnormalities. Poor fetus development and growth as well as malformations and defects may also be readily detected during regular ultrasound examinations.
Treatment:
Thalomide is known as an immunomodulant and anti-inflamamtory medication that is primarily used to treat lupus erythematosus, arthritis, sarcoidosis, AIDS-related wasting disease and rheumatoid. Women who are under this medication are usually required to take two forms of birth controls and monthly pregnancy tests.
Symptoms and Signs:
Fetal thalidomide syndrome involves fetal abnormalities and organ malfunctions that may place the fetus into high risk.
Causes:
Pregnant women are highly susceptible to diseases during the first trimester. The three hypothesis on the pathogenesis of this condition include tissue organ, cellular and biochemical.
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