Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Screening
Reviewed
Also called: Fetal alcohol syndrome screening, Fetal alcohol 4-digit diagnostic code
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) are a group of conditions that can happen in a child who was exposed to alcohol before birth (called prenatal alcohol exposure).
Specimen: Not applicable
Why this test may be ordered
- Alcohol use during pregnancy
- A child with symptoms of an FASD, such as abnormal facial features, small head size, or learning and behavior problems
Preparation and collection
There are no special preparations needed for an FASD screening.
There is no single test for FASDs. Some providers may also use a method called the 4-digit code when they do a physical exam on your child to check for FASDs.
There are no risks to having an FASDs screening.
Understanding results
Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) are a group of conditions that can happen in a child who was exposed to alcohol before birth (called prenatal alcohol exposure). These conditions can affect each person in different ways and can range from mild to severe.
- Child is diagnosed with an FASD: People with FASDs can have lifelong effects, including physical, emotional, and behavioral problems. Limitation: There is no cure for FASDs, but early diagnosis and treatment may help reduce some of the symptoms and help your child reach their full potential. Next step: If your child is diagnosed with an FASD, your provider may recommend several treatment options.
- 4-digit code total score: Your provider will rate each category on a scale of one to four, and then add the numbers. The total number will help them in making a diagnosis based on the following categories: Lower height and weight than other children of the same age and sex, FAS facial features, Behavior and learning difficulties, Exposure to alcohol during pregnancy. Limitation: There is no single test for FASDs. Next step: If your child is diagnosed with an FASD, your provider may recommend several treatment options.
- There is no single test for FASDs; diagnosis is based on several findings.
- There is no cure, but treatment can improve development and quality of life.
What to do next
If your child is diagnosed with an FASD, your provider may recommend several treatment options.
- What did the screening show about my child?
- Which specialists or school services could help my child?
- Where can I get help to stop drinking during pregnancy?
Evidence source
Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). Practices and reference ranges may differ in your country.
U.S. National Library of Medicine: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Screening