How is FAS/ARND diagnosed?
FAS/ARND can only be diagnosed by a medical doctor. Diagnosis is based on four criteria:
- Growth: Growth retardation where weight and/or length are below the 10th percentile when corrected for gestational age and mean parental height. In other words, the child is smaller than 90% of other children their age taking into account if they were born prematurely or if both parents are short in stature.
- Face: A characteristic pattern of facial features and other physical abnormalities. Specific measurements are taken of certain facial features and put together in a formula determining a score for this criterion. Because of the precise way in which these features are assessed and the other criteria that must be met to make a diagnosis, it is impossible to tell that a child has FAS just by looking at them.
- Brain: Evidence of central nervous system impairment that may be indicated by some of the following: microcephaly (smaller than normal head), behavioral dysfunction including hyperactivity, poor coordination, learning disabilities, developmental delays, tremors, seizures, or mental retardation, among other symptoms.
NOTE: The vast majority of people with FAS/ARND have low-average to above-average intelligence. Only about 20% are mentally retarded.
- Fetal Alcohol Exposure: Evidence of maternal drinking is sought, however, confirmed prenatal alcohol exposure is not necessary for a diagnosis to be made. In many cases, children are adopted and no such information is available.
In order to be diagnosed with FAS, a person must meet the criteria for growth, face, and brain. An ARND diagnosis is made when brain damage is evident, but the characteristic facial features are not present.