What is a common facial characteristic of an infant with fetal alcohol syndrome?

A common facial characteristic of an infant with fetal alcohol syndrome is short palpebral fissures. This feature is indicative of the craniofacial anomalies associated with the condition. Short palpebral fissures reflect the abnormal development of facial structures that occurs as a result of prenatal alcohol exposure, which disrupts normal growth patterns.

Infants with fetal alcohol syndrome may also display other facial features, such as a smooth philtrum and a thin upper lip; however, short palpebral fissures are often highlighted in clinical assessments as a key characteristic. Recognizing this specific feature is vital for early diagnosis and intervention, which can significantly influence long-term outcomes for affected infants.