| Individuals exposed to alcohol in utero have reduced cortical grey matter volumes. However, the underlying determinants of these reductions have not been investigated exclusively in alcohol-related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND). Using magnetic resonance imaging scans from 121 participants (57 ARND and 64 controls) aged 8 to 16 years, cortical morphology was analyzed. Results revealed the ARND group had reduced cortical grey matter volumes, but did not differ from controls in cortical thickness. Rather, the cortical abnormalities reflected reductions in global surface area, local surface area reductions in the right occipital-temporal area and right superior temporal gyrus, as well as reduced gyrification. A significant interaction between sex and group was observed, with females showing greater reductions than males in cortical volume and surface area. Results suggest that ARND is characterized by global reductions in cortical surface area and gyrification and females are more vulnerable than males to the teratogenic effects of alcohol. |
