Congenital Malformations

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Abstract
Congenital malformations are a common cause of illness, handicapping conditions and death. The incidence varies with the age of the person being evaluated. It is highest among spontaneous abortions, with many of the abnormalities incompatible with survival. About 2 per cent of newborns have a major malformation. Additional malformations not detected at birth, such as renal anomalies and cardiac defects, become apparent in succeeding years.TerminologySeveral terms have been adapted for use in describing the nature of malformation. Anomaly and malformation are considered synonymous for a structural abnormality. A major malformation has either surgical or cosmetic consequences; a minor . . .