Congenital malformation

Congenital malformation is a physical defect present in a baby at birth that can involve many different parts of the body, including the brain, heart, lungs, liver, bones, and intestinal tract. Congenital malformation can be genetic, it can be the result of exposure to viruses or chemicals, or it can be unknown.

Causes

The exact causes of congenital malformations are often hard to determine, but they are thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and other unknown factors. Some malformations are caused by genetic mutations or chromosomal abnormalities. Others are caused by environmental factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals or viruses during pregnancy, or a lack of certain nutrients in the mother's diet. In many cases, the cause of the malformation is unknown.

Types

There are many different types of congenital malformations, including:

• Neural tube defects: These are malformations of the brain, spine, or spinal cord. They occur in the first month of pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she's pregnant.
• Heart defects: These are problems with the structure of the heart. They are the most common type of birth defect.
• Cleft lip or cleft palate: These are openings or splits in the upper lip, the roof of the mouth (palate) or both.
• Clubfoot: This is a deformity in which an infant's foot is turned inward, often so severely that the bottom of the foot faces sideways or even upward.

Diagnosis

Congenital malformations can often be diagnosed before birth through prenatal testing. This can include ultrasound scans, blood tests, and genetic testing. After birth, a physical examination of the baby can often identify a malformation.

Treatment

The treatment for a congenital malformation depends on the specific type of malformation and its severity. Some malformations require surgery or other medical treatments. Others can be managed with physical therapy or other supportive care.

Prevention

While not all congenital malformations can be prevented, some can be avoided by taking certain steps before and during pregnancy. These can include taking folic acid supplements, avoiding certain medications and substances, and getting vaccinated against certain diseases.

See also

• Birth defect
• Genetic disorder
• Prenatal diagnosis

Congenital malformation Resources
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