Question 66

Mothers who took the drug thalidomide during their pregnancy most often had babies who were born with deformed limbs.

Thalidomide exposure during pregnancy is primarily associated with the development of severe limb deformities in infants, commonly referred to as phocomelia, where the limbs are either absent or severely shortened.

A) Deformed limbs

This option is correct as thalidomide is well-documented for causing significant limb deformities in babies born to mothers who took the drug during pregnancy. The drug was initially prescribed for morning sickness but led to widespread birth defects, particularly affecting the limbs.

B) Nearsightedness

Nearsightedness, or myopia, is not a known consequence of thalidomide exposure. While various visual impairments can occur for different reasons, thalidomide is specifically linked to limb malformations rather than ocular conditions.

C) Intellectual disabilities

While some children affected by thalidomide may experience developmental delays, intellectual disabilities are not directly attributed to thalidomide exposure. This option fails to address the primary characteristic associated with the drug.

D) Hemophilia

Hemophilia is a genetic disorder related to blood clotting and is not influenced by thalidomide use. This condition does not correlate with the teratogenic effects of thalidomide, making it an incorrect choice.

E) Frequent infections

Frequent infections are not a recognized characteristic of thalidomide exposure. While compromised health can occur in some children with disabilities, this option does not align with the specific birth defects caused by the drug.

Conclusion

The definitive characteristic of babies born to mothers who took thalidomide during pregnancy is the presence of deformed limbs, making option A the correct choice. Other options do not relate to the well-documented effects of thalidomide, confirming that they are incorrect in this context.