Mitzi's child has facial deformities, a smaller than normal head, heart defects, learning difficulties, and delayed growth. If these defects can be traced to a teratogen ingested by Mitzi during pregnancy, it MOST likely would have been

• A. cocaine
• B. heroin
• C. alcohol
• D. nicotine

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the term 'teratogen': A teratogen is any agent that can cause a birth defect or negatively alter cognitive and behavioral outcomes. Common teratogens include drugs, alcohol, and certain infections.
2. Identify the symptoms described: The child has facial deformities, a smaller than normal head, heart defects, learning difficulties, and delayed growth.
3. Link the symptoms to a specific teratogen: These symptoms are characteristic of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), which is caused by alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
4. Consider the effects of other substances: Cocaine, heroin, and nicotine can also affect fetal development, but they typically do not cause the specific combination of symptoms associated with FAS.
5. Conclude that alcohol is the most likely teratogen: Given the specific symptoms described, alcohol is the most likely teratogen responsible for these developmental issues.