The management of fetal alcohol syndrome is primarily:

• A. Therapeutic abortion
• B. Supportive management
• C. Antipsychotic therapy
• D. Seizure prophylaxis

Answer: (B)

Fetal alcohol syndrome is managed primarily with supportive, multidisciplinary care because there is no cure and the goal is to optimize development and functioning across life. This means early identification and a coordinated approach that addresses growth issues, feeding and nutrition, and a range of CNS-related problems. Therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy help with motor skills, coordination, language, and learning challenges. Special education plans and ongoing behavioral and social support are essential, as many individuals have ADHD-like symptoms, learning difficulties, and social/behavioral needs. Medical care focuses on treating associated conditions as they arise (for example, sleep or mood problems) and providing resources for families to support development and daily functioning.

Therapeutic abortion is not the standard management approach across the spectrum of affected individuals. Antipsychotic therapy and seizure prophylaxis are not routinely used as primary treatments for FAS; medications may be needed for specific comorbid symptoms or seizures if they occur, but they address only a subset of issues rather than the overall condition.