Middle and inner ear malformations in two siblings exposed to valproic acid during pregnancy: a case report

Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol. 2014 Nov;78(11):2007-10. doi: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2014.08.030. Epub 2014 Aug 28.

Abstract

Valproic acid (VPA) is a known teratogenic drug. Exposure to VPA during the pregnancy can lead to a distinct facial appearance, a cluster of major and minor anomalies and developmental delay. In this case report, two siblings with fetal valproate syndrome and a mild conductive hearing loss were investigated. Radiologic evaluation showed middle and inner ear malformations in both children. Audiologic, vestibular and motor examination was performed. This is the first case report to describe middle and inner ear malformations in children exposed to VPA.

Keywords: Fetal valproate syndrome (FVS); Teratogenicity; Valproic acid (VPA); Vestibular function.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abnormalities, Drug-Induced / diagnosis*
  • Abnormalities, Multiple / chemically induced*
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Developmental Disabilities / chemically induced
  • Ear, Inner / abnormalities*
  • Ear, Middle / abnormalities*
  • Facies
  • Female
  • Hearing Loss, Conductive / chemically induced
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Pregnancy
  • Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects / diagnosis*
  • Siblings
  • Valproic Acid / adverse effects*

Substances

  • Valproic Acid

Supplementary concepts

  • Valproic acid antenatal infection