Question

Lithium usage in pregnancy can lead to which of the following teratogenic effects?

• A. Cardiac defects
• B. Facial defects
• C. CNS defects
• D. Urogenital defects

Hint:

Lithium should be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential teratogenic effects, particularly cardiac defects like Ebstein's anomaly.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Cardiac defects: This is the correct answer. Lithium use during pregnancy has been linked to cardiac defects, particularly Ebstein's anomaly, which is a congenital malformation of the tricuspid valve. This is the most recognized teratogenic effect of lithium.
Facial defects: There is no significant association between lithium use and facial defects. Other teratogens may cause facial malformations, but this is not commonly seen with lithium.
CNS defects: Lithium has not been consistently associated with central nervous system (CNS) defects in pregnancy, though it is contraindicated in pregnancy due to other risks, including its teratogenic effects on the heart.
Urogenital defects: There is no strong association between lithium and urogenital defects. It is known to have several potential risks, but urogenital malformations are not among the prominent teratogenic effects. Thus, the correct answer is Cardiac defects (1), as lithium use during pregnancy is most commonly linked to cardiac malformations, especially Ebstein's anomaly.