Which of the following is a characteristic feature of warfarin embryopathy?

Which of the following is a characteristic feature of warfarin embryopathy?

• A. Hypoplastic left heart syndrome
• B. Nasal hypoplasia
• C. Cleft lip
• D. Neural tube defect

Answer: (B)

Warfarin embryopathy is characterized by a specific set of features that result from exposure to warfarin during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. One of the most recognized manifestations of warfarin embryopathy is nasal hypoplasia, which refers to underdevelopment of the nasal structures. This condition often presents as a flattened nose and can be associated with other craniofacial anomalies. The other options, while involving congenital malformations, are not typically associated with warfarin use during pregnancy. Hypoplastic left heart syndrome, although a severe cardiac defect, is not specifically linked to warfarin. Similarly, cleft lips and neural tube defects are linked to a variety of causes, such as genetic factors and maternal vitamin deficiencies, but they do not fall under the distinctive features attributed to warfarin embryopathy. Therefore, nasal hypoplasia stands out as the primary characteristic feature of warfarin embryopathy, highlighting the importance of avoiding this medication during critical periods of fetal development.

Warfarin embryopathy is characterized by a specific set of features that result from exposure to warfarin during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester. One of the most recognized manifestations of warfarin embryopathy is nasal hypoplasia, which refers to underdevelopment of the nasal structures. This condition often presents as a flattened nose and can be associated with other craniofacial anomalies.

The other options, while involving congenital malformations, are not typically associated with warfarin use during pregnancy. Hypoplastic left heart syndrome, although a severe cardiac defect, is not specifically linked to warfarin. Similarly, cleft lips and neural tube defects are linked to a variety of causes, such as genetic factors and maternal vitamin deficiencies, but they do not fall under the distinctive features attributed to warfarin embryopathy. Therefore, nasal hypoplasia stands out as the primary characteristic feature of warfarin embryopathy, highlighting the importance of avoiding this medication during critical periods of fetal development.