Fetal Valproate Syndrome

[David'smommy]

This is the syndrome my little guy has that caused his cranio. From valproaic acid (depakote) that his birth mom was taking during pregnancy. Just wondered if anyone here has a child with the same?

[Katie]

I actually hadn't heard of this syndrome until your post. Depakote is commonly used to treat bi-polar disorder or seizures, right? I know there are several parents on here whose children have syndrome related craniosynostosis, but I don't think any of them are this syndrome. It's actually the first non-hereditary type of syndrome I've heard of.
I'm glad you posted this, with Depakote being used to treat two such somewhat common disorders, I think it's important for potential parents to be aware of what it can cause, especially since I read that it happens in the first three months of pregnancy when many women are just finding out they're expecting. It's a shame that something that be be so life changing and helpful can also be the very source of heartache.
I'm sorry I don't know of anyone who has experienced the same as your little man, but thank you for sharing, I think your post will prove to be educational for many :hugg

[jphp]

We also have an adopted son who has fetal valproate syndrome. He underwent anterior cranial vault reconstruction in Sept of 07. He has several other features of the syndrome (hypospadias, tear duct obstruction, ankyloglossia, etc) but has been doing very well. I would love to talk more with you about your experience. There is not a lot of information out there about this syndrome. We were just very fortunate to find a great craniofacial surgeon who took one look at our son and mentioned the syndrome. We had been assured at the hospital at birth that he just needed a few"cosmetic" surgeries and there was no chance he had a syndrome.