Birth defects from methotrexate
Examples of the serious birth defects that methotrexate can cause include:
neural tube defects, such as:
anencephaly (missing a part of the brain or skull)
meningocele (a swollen cyst on the spine filled with cerebrospinal fluid)
myelomeningocele (incomplete closing of the spinal cord)
encephalocele (sac-like parts of the brain extending out through the skull)
spina bifida cystica (a bony defect in the spinal column)
cleidocranial dysostosis, which can cause:
missing or poorly developed collar bones
abnormal skull development
bulging of the forehead
hypertelorism (increased distance between two body parts, such as the eyes)
other malformations such as misshapen ears, flat nose, and undersized jaw
abnormal positioning of the hands at the wrist
missing bones in the arm