The correct answer is:
C. Rubella
Explanation:
Rubella, especially when contracted during the first trimester of pregnancy, is a significant cause of multiple fetal anomalies. This is due to its teratogenic effects, which can result in congenital rubella syndrome (CRS). The anomalies caused by CRS can include:
- Cardiac defects (e.g., patent ductus arteriosus, pulmonary artery stenosis)
- Ocular defects (e.g., cataracts, retinopathy, glaucoma)
- Auditory defects (e.g., sensorineural hearing loss)
- Neurological defects (e.g., microcephaly, developmental delays)
Other options:
- A. Syphilis: Can cause congenital syphilis with specific anomalies (e.g., skeletal deformities, Hutchinson teeth), but it is not the most common cause of multiple fetal anomalies.
- B. Tetracycline: Causes specific anomalies, mainly involving dental staining and hypoplasia, not a wide range of fetal anomalies.
- D. Rubeola (measles): While it can cause complications in pregnancy, it is less associated with multiple fetal anomalies compared to rubella.
Rubella is particularly significant due to its potential to cause a broad spectrum of anomalies when maternal infection occurs early in pregnancy.