Name two potential physical or neurodevelopmental features of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.

• A. Facial abnormalities (short palpebral fissures) and neurodevelopmental deficits (cognitive impairment)
• B. Heartburn and hair loss
• C. Heightened athletic ability
• D. Improved memory

Answer: (A)

Prenatal alcohol exposure can disrupt both physical facial development and brain development, so FASD often shows a combination of outward facial features and neurodevelopmental challenges. The option that pairs facial abnormalities (like short palpebral fissures) with neurodevelopmental deficits (such as cognitive impairment) fits this pattern, reflecting how alcohol exposure can affect craniofacial formation and brain function alike. Other choices don’t align with FASD: heartburn and hair loss aren’t characteristic signs of fetal alcohol effects, and traits like heightened athletic ability or improved memory are not associated with FASD. In contrast, cognitive impairment and facial dysmorphology are well-documented manifestations of prenatal alcohol exposure.