Congenital defect

Congenital defect is a term used to describe a condition that is present at birth. These defects can be structural or functional anomalies, including metabolic disorders, which are caused by genetic, environmental, and unknown factors. They can affect any part of the body, and the severity of the defect can range from mild to life-threatening.

Causes

Congenital defects can be caused by a variety of factors. Some are due to genetic disorders, while others are caused by environmental factors such as exposure to certain drugs or chemicals during pregnancy. In many cases, the cause of the defect is unknown.

Types

There are many different types of congenital defects, including:

• Heart defects: These are the most common type of congenital defect. They can range from simple conditions that cause no symptoms to complex defects that require surgery soon after birth.

• Neural tube defects: These defects occur when the spinal cord, brain, and related structures do not develop properly. Spina bifida and anencephaly are examples of neural tube defects.

• Cleft lip or palate: These defects occur when the lip or roof of the mouth do not form properly during early fetal development.

• Down syndrome: This is a genetic disorder that causes intellectual disability and distinctive physical features.

Diagnosis

Congenital defects can often be diagnosed before birth through prenatal testing. After birth, a physical examination can often identify visible defects. Further testing may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the defect.

Treatment

The treatment for a congenital defect depends on the specific condition and its severity. Some defects require surgery or other medical interventions shortly after birth. Others can be managed with medication or physical therapy.

See also

• Birth defect
• Genetic disorder
• Prenatal diagnosis

Congenital defect Resources
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