Valproate embryopathy in three sets of siblings: further proof of hereditary susceptibility.
The fetal valproate syndrome (FVS) is characterized by distinctive facial appearance, major and minor malformations, and developmental delay. Generally, only a small proportion of prenatally exposed children are affected. The authors describe three families in whom the occurrence of FVS in all the siblings strongly suggests hereditary susceptibility to valproic acid-induced adverse outcome. The risk for recurrence in a subsequent pregnancy may be high and should be taken into account in the counseling of parents and in considering drug treatment.
Teratology Information Service, Department of Medical Genetics, Family Federation of Finland, Helsinki.
H
H
Malm
E
E
Kajantie
S
S
Kivirikko
H
H
Kääriäinen
M
M
Peippo
M
M
Somer
D000014:Abnormalities, Drug-Induced / Q000175:diagnosis; D000015:Abnormalities, Multiple / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002658:Developmental Disabilities / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000175:diagnosis; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy; D005145:Face / Q000002:abnormalities*; D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008431:Maternal-Fetal Exchange; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D013577:Syndrome; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000009:adverse effects*
D014635:Valproic Acid