Congenital anomalies

Congenital anomalies are structural or functional anomalies (including metabolic disorders) that occur during intrauterine life and can be identified prenatally, at birth, or sometimes may only be detected later in infancy, such as developmental delays.

Definition

The term congenital anomalies is a broad category that includes a variety of conditions. These anomalies can be as minor as a slight physical deformity that has no impact on health, or as severe as a life-threatening disease.

Types

There are many different types of congenital anomalies, including:

• Congenital heart defects
• Neural tube defects (such as spina bifida and anencephaly)
• Cleft lip and cleft palate
• Down syndrome
• Sickle cell disease

Causes

The exact cause of most congenital anomalies is unknown. However, known causes can be divided into four main categories:

• Genetic factors
• Infections during pregnancy
• Exposure to radiation or medications
• Maternal health factors, such as obesity and diabetes

Prevention

While not all congenital anomalies can be prevented, a significant proportion can be avoided by:

• Genetic counseling
• Vaccination
• Adequate intake of folic acid
• Avoiding harmful substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs
• Controlling chronic diseases

Treatment

Treatment for congenital anomalies varies depending on the specific condition. It may include surgical procedures, physical therapy, medication, and support services.

See also

• Birth defect
• Genetic disorder
• Prenatal diagnosis

Congenital anomalies Resources
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