**Core Concept**
Warfarin, a commonly used oral anticoagulant, is a known teratogen. When taken during pregnancy, it can lead to congenital malformations in the fetus due to its mechanism of action, which involves the inhibition of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Warfarin crosses the placenta and inhibits vitamin K-dependent clotting factors, including factors II, VII, IX, and X. This inhibition disrupts the normal development of the fetus, particularly affecting the formation of the craniofacial structures. The most common congenital malformations associated with warfarin use in pregnancy are craniofacial abnormalities, such as nasal hypoplasia and stippled epiphyses. The exact mechanism of these malformations is not fully understood, but it is believed that the inhibition of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors affects the normal development of the craniofacial structures.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** Renal agenesis is not a known congenital malformation associated with warfarin use in pregnancy. Renal agenesis is typically associated with genetic mutations or environmental factors that affect kidney development.
**Option C:** Long bone defects are not a characteristic feature of warfarin embryopathy. While warfarin can affect bone development, long bone defects are not a specific or characteristic finding in children exposed to warfarin in utero.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Warfarin embryopathy, also known as fetal warfarin syndrome, is a condition characterized by craniofacial malformations, stippled epiphyses, and short stature. It is essential to avoid warfarin use during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, to minimize the risk of congenital malformations.
**β Correct Answer: A. Craniofacial malformations**
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.