Which of the following is NOT considered an alcohol-related birth defect?

The correct choice identifies small ears as not typically categorized as an alcohol-related birth defect. Alcohol-related birth defects primarily associated with prenatal alcohol exposure manifest as structural and functional anomalies linked to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).

Microcephaly, small palpebral fissures, and a flat nasal bridge are all recognized features of FASD. Microcephaly refers to an abnormally small head, which can result from impaired brain growth due to alcohol exposure during pregnancy. Small palpebral fissures, which are the openings between the eyelids, are a distinctive facial feature seen in individuals with FASD, often accompanying developmental and cognitive delays. A flat nasal bridge is another characteristic observed in FASD, contributing to the distinct facial phenotype that can assist in diagnosing the disorder.

In contrast, small ears, while possibly associated with various genetic or environmental factors, do not have a specific correlation with prenatal alcohol exposure as direct markers of alcohol-related birth defects. They are not part of the classic triad of features used in diagnosing fetal alcohol syndrome or the broader spectrum of alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorders.