Could Improved Microcirculation Reverse the Effects of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome? A Review

Abstract

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, (FASDs) are a spectrum of neurodevelopmental and cognitive conditions, caused by the consumption of alcohol in varying amounts in utero that affect an estimated 1 - 5% of the general population in the United States. The effects of the spectrum of disorders are lifelong, resulting in often significant learning difficulties, cognitive deficits, and behavioral issues. It is known that blood flow and microcirculation to the brain are affected by the consumption of alcohol in utero, and that microcirculation and neurology are intimately linked, with changes in the former having drastic effects on the latter. The purpose of the current review is to analyze whether improvement in microcirculation in the infant or child with FASDs could affect quality of clinical outcomes in the spectrum of disorders, or lead to the improvement of disorder-related symptoms. Scientific evidence from the literature suggests that, in theory, improving cerebral microcirculation in the infant or young child with FASDs could lead to a corresponding improvement in neurological health, and potentially an improvement in cerebral development, which may in theory lead to a lessening of symptoms. Further review into the connection between microcirculation and neurological health, and correspondingly, clinical outcomes in patients with neurological deficits, is warranted.