The Intersections of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Mood Dysregulation: A Rare Case of Behavioral Complexity

Abstract

This case report presents a complex psychiatric profile of a 19-year-old female with diagnoses of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), mild intellectual disability, and mood dysregulation, complicated by trauma history, psychotic features, and repeated hospitalizations. Her neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders have contributed to persistent high-risk behaviors, legal involvement, and challenges with independent living, ultimately necessitating group home placement. This case highlights the unique relationship between FAS and coexisting neurodevelopmental conditions, emphasizing the poor long-term outcomes frequently associated with FAS and ultimately the importance of comprehensive, multidisciplinary care in managing such patients. We review the current literature on co-occurrence of ASD and FAS, prognosis, and clinical management challenges posed by these overlapping conditions.

Keywords: attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder; autism spectrum disorder; fetal alcohol spectrum disorders; fetal alcohol syndrome; mood disorder; mood dysregulation.