new research identified a potential new syndrome in infants whose mothers used fentanyl during pregnancy.
Doctors identified 10 babies born with birth defects whose mothers used over-the-counter drugs, including fentanyl, during pregnancy. According to research By Nemours Children's Health in Wilmington, Delaware.
“This new syndrome is clinically recognizable,” the study authors wrote. “The surprising findings in these people made recognition of this new syndrome possible.”
Researchers identified key characteristics common to babies, including small heads, genital abnormalities, cleft palates, and club feet. They also observed a short, wide thumb with webs between the toes.
broader issue
This new syndrome is part of the broader American fentanyl crisis.
“This is alarming,” said Dr. Elizabeth Chelot, president of the March of Dimes. NBC 10 Philadelphia. “As these common features are identified, we may be unlocking the roof of the true syndrome.”
Nemours genetic counselor Erin Wadman discovered the possibility of a new syndrome in August 2022 while evaluating a baby with a birth defect.
