Clinical, psychopathological and developmental aspects in children with the fetal alcohol syndrome: a four-year follow-up study.

Paediatric, neurological and psychiatric examinations were done in 71 children with the fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). A subgroup of these patients underwent psychiatric assessment and psychological testing. Psychopathology was also studied in a matched control group. After three to four years various subgroups were re-examined. With increasing age dysmorphic signs were less apparent. Neurological performance improved and EEG recordings revealed fewer pathological patterns. The psychiatric status and cognitive functions of the patients also improved, but they did not become normal in all psychiatric areas. Hyperactivity and distractibility seem to be the major handicaps preventing these children from having a normal school career.