FETAL AMINOPTERIN / METHOTREXATE SYNDROME

Methotrexate, the methyl derivative of aminopterin, is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, however it has also been used as an abortion agent (as it does prevent cell division).

• Craniofacial.
• Microcephaly.
• Hypoplasia of the frontal, parietal temporal or occipital bones.
• Wide fontanelles.
• Premature synostosis of the lambdoid or coronal sutures.
• Broad nasal bridge.
• Micrognathia.
• Low set ears.
• Maxillary hypoplasia.
• Limbs.
• Mesomelia.
• Talipes equinovarus.
• Syndactyly.

REFERENCES

1. Feldcamp M, Carey JC. Clinical teratology counselling and consultation case report: Low dose methotrexate exposure in the early weeks of pregnancy. Teratology 1993;47:533.
2. Shaw EB, Steinbach HL. Aminopterin induced fetal malformations. Am J Dis CHILD 1968;115:477.