About Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome

What is Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome?

Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome is a rare disorder caused by a pregnant woman taking the anticonvulsant drug phenytoin (also known as Dilantin) during pregnancy. It is characterized by physical and mental birth defects, including facial abnormalities, growth retardation, and intellectual disability.

What are the symptoms of Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome?

The symptoms of Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome vary from person to person, but may include:

- Low birth weight
- Small head circumference
- Facial abnormalities, such as a small jaw, wide-set eyes, and a thin upper lip
- Heart defects
- Cleft lip or palate
- Abnormalities of the hands and feet
- Poor muscle tone
- Intellectual disability
- Seizures
- Vision and hearing problems
- Kidney and urinary tract abnormalities
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Behavioral problems

What are the causes of Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome?

Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome is caused by a pregnant woman taking the anticonvulsant drug phenytoin (also known as Dilantin) during pregnancy. This drug is used to treat epilepsy and other seizure disorders. When taken during pregnancy, it can cause a range of physical and mental birth defects in the baby, known as Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome.

What are the treatments for Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome?

There is no cure for Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome, but there are treatments available to help manage the symptoms. These treatments may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and special education services. Medications may also be prescribed to help manage seizures, hyperactivity, and other behavioral issues. Additionally, counseling and support services may be recommended to help families cope with the diagnosis.

What are the risk factors for Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome?

1. Maternal use of anticonvulsant medications, such as phenytoin (Dilantin) or hydantoin (Mysoline), during pregnancy.

2. Maternal use of multiple anticonvulsant medications during pregnancy.

3. Maternal use of anticonvulsant medications during the first trimester of pregnancy.

4. Maternal use of anticonvulsant medications at high doses.

5. Maternal use of anticonvulsant medications for a long period of time.

6. Maternal use of anticonvulsant medications in combination with other medications.

7. Maternal use of anticonvulsant medications in combination with alcohol or other drugs.

8. Maternal use of anticonvulsant medications in combination with

Is there a cure/medications for Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome?

There is no cure for Fetal Hydantoin Syndrome, but there are medications that can help manage the symptoms. These medications may include anticonvulsants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and stimulants. Additionally, physical, occupational, and speech therapy can help improve motor skills, communication, and social skills.