Diagnosis of fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS): German guideline version 2013.

BACKGROUND

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) belongs to the umbrella of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) and affects 0.02-0.8% of all annual births with a high number of undetected cases. FAS has severe and life determining consequences for the affected individual and his family.

AIM: The aim of the German guideline version 2013 is to provide objectively evaluated, evidence-based, clinically relevant and easily applicable diagnostic criteria for the full picture FAS.

METHODS

A systematic literature review (2001-2011), analysis of international guidelines and focused hand search were performed. Based on the evidence-assessed literature the multidisciplinary guideline group (14 German Professional Societies, the patient support group "FASD Germany" and 15 additional experts) consented recommendations for the diagnosis of FAS.

RESULTS

The following diagnostic criteria for FAS resulted: at least one deficit of growth, three defined facial characteristics and one functional or structural anomaly of the central nervous system. Confirmation of intrauterine alcohol exposure is not considered as a prerequisite for FAS diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

The German guideline presented here constitutes an unbiased evidence-based approach to the diagnosis of patients with fetal alcohol syndrome. It includes a practical pocket guide FAS for a quick overview of the diagnostic workup in everyday clinical work.