Fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS)

A specific pattern of abnormal fatal growth and physical defects that result from a period of reduced motor activity or akinesia during fetal development. The causes are quite disparate and poorly understand as the abnormality is clinically and genetically varied group of features that includes intrauterine growth restriction, short umbilical cord, arthrogryposis (a rare congenital disorder resulting in multiple joint contractures and limb deformities, see figure below), and cleft palate.  In fact, the only common feature is akinesia.  FADS is, however, associated with polyhydramnios.    

Hands of a fetus with FADS at 13 weeks gestation.   

See Akinesia, Congenital malformations, Hydramnios (polyhydramnios), Intrauterine growth restriction or retardation (IUGR), Oliogohydramnios