A case of fetal valproate syndrome with new features expanding the phenotype.
Fetal valproate syndrome (FVS) is a well-recognized constellation of dysmorphic features, and neurodevelopmental retardation that results from prenatal exposure to the anticonvulsant valproic acid. In this report, we describe a case with typical features of FVS. A 23-year-old lady with post-traumatic epilepsy controlled by sodium valproate (Depakene) 500 mg twice daily throughout pregnancy as monotherapy, gave birth to a female baby with facial features characteristic of FVS, and severe radial ray reduction. She also had wide-spaced nipples and short neck, features not described before. Sodium valproate, a widely used anticonvulsant and mood regulator, is a well-recognized teratogen that can result in severe limb deformities, craniosynostosis, neural tube defects and neurodevelopmental retardation. Therefore, we recommend that valproic acid must be avoided during pregnancy, as new generation of anticonvulsant drugs have emerged into the market.
Seidahmed
Mohammed Z
MZ
Department of Pediatrics, Security Forces Hospital, Riyadh 11481, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. zainsidahmed@hotmail.com
Miqdad
Abeer M
AM
Al-Dohami
Hessa S
HS
Shareefi
Osama M
OM
D000015:Abnormalities, Multiple / Q000139:chemically induced*; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004834:Epilepsy, Post-Traumatic / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D005333:Fetus / Q000187:drug effects*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000188:drug therapy; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D014635:Valproic Acid