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Teratogen
Counseling
Introduction
Effective pregnancy management after possible teratogen exposure
requires rapid access to authoritative teratogen literature, the
ability to assess the specific patient situation, and the means
to carefully examine a baby by ultrasound. GLG is well equipped
to evaluate possible teratogenic exposures. GLG has access to on-line
teratogen information services, has an extensive teratogen library,
offers high-level ultrasound evaluations, houses a comprehensive
genetic laboratory, and has staff trained in the evaluation and
counseling for teratogenic situations. These include gestational
exposure to medications, industrial chemicals, infectious agents,
diagnostic radiation exposure, maternal illness, alcohol, illegal
drugs, and other items that may adversely affect the formation of
the developing baby.
Description
Questions concerning potential teratogenic effects can often be
resolved by a simple phone call to our office. In other instances
a patient visit for a more comprehensive consultation with a genetic
counselor or clinical geneticist may be necessary. In these cases,
a report will be issued to the referring physician. This is helpful
to clarify the situation for the patient and to document that the
obstetrician or family physician pursued a proper evaluation of
the possible teratogenic exposure.
Indications
The most common indications include:
• inadvertent medication exposure
• medical treatment of maternal illness
• professional or industrial exposure
• maternal infection
• alcohol intake
• illegal drug use
CPT Codes
99242 - consultation, level 2
99244 - counseling, level 3
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