Malformation

Malformation is a medical term that refers to an abnormality in the structure of a part of the body, which is caused by errors in the formation of the body's structure during an embryo's development. Malformations can occur in any part of the body, including the heart, brain, lungs, liver, bones, and skin. They can be isolated, where only one part of the body is affected, or they can be part of a syndrome, where multiple parts of the body are affected.

Causes

Malformations are usually caused by genetic mutations or environmental factors that interfere with the normal development of an embryo. Genetic mutations can be inherited from parents or can occur spontaneously. Environmental factors can include exposure to certain drugs, chemicals, or infections during pregnancy.

Types

There are many different types of malformations, including:

• Congenital heart defects
• Neural tube defects
• Cleft lip and palate
• Spina bifida
• Clubfoot
• Hypospadias
• Polydactyly

Diagnosis

Malformations can often be diagnosed before birth through prenatal testing, such as ultrasound, amniocentesis, and chorionic villus sampling. After birth, malformations can be diagnosed through physical examination, imaging tests, and genetic testing.

Treatment

The treatment for malformations depends on the type and severity of the malformation. Some malformations can be corrected or improved with surgery, while others may require ongoing medical management. In some cases, malformations can be life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention.

See also

• Birth defect
• Congenital disorder
• Genetic disorder
• Teratology

Malformation Resources
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