Prenatal diagnosis of multiple fetal anomalies in naphthalene-addicted pregnant women: a case report.

BACKGROUND

Naphthalene is one of the abused inhalants. It has been associated with acute and chronic health problems. To the authors' knowledge, prenatal exposure to naphthalene has never been discussed in humans.

METHODS

The authors discuss a case of naphthalene-addicted pregnant women with multiple fetal anomalies. At 15 weeks gestation, ultrasound screening demostrated multiple fetal anomalies: anencephaly, scoliosis, diffuse subcutaneous edema, flexion contracture of lower extremities, and hypoplastic left ventricle. Four weeks later obstetrical ultrasonography revealed that there was no fetal cardiac activity. The patient had a medical abortion.

CONCLUSIONS

A stronger knowledge basis regarding naphthalene-related fetal anomaly is required to ensure accurate direct link, however the probability of naphthalene-related fetal anomaly must be considered.