What are the common types of fetal malformations?
Dec 26, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, common fetal malformations include polydactyly (extra fingers or toes), cleft lip and palate, cardiac abnormalities, open neural tube defects, and congenital intellectual disabilities. Pregnant women should avoid exposure to harmful substances and environmental pollutants during pregnancy, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, or contact with toxic substances. These risk factors may increase the likelihood of developmental defects in the fetus.
Generally, common fetal malformations include polydactyly (extra fingers or toes), cleft lip and palate, cardiac malformations, open neural tube defects, and congenital intellectual disabilities. If experiencing any discomfort or symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation at a hospital and follow the guidance of a physician for standardized treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Polydactyly
Polydactyly refers to the presence of extra fingers or toes. This malformation may be caused by genetic factors; when parents have abnormalities in chromosome number or structure, it may lead to polydactyly in the fetus. Additionally, environmental factors, such as a pregnant woman's exposure to certain chemicals or medications during pregnancy, may also increase the risk of this malformation in the fetus.
2. Cleft Lip and Palate
Cleft lip and palate are common congenital facial malformations that may affect a child's ability to feed and speak. Both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to the occurrence of cleft lip and palate. Genetic factors include family history and chromosomal abnormalities, while environmental factors include viral infections, exposure to toxic substances, or medication use during pregnancy.
3. Cardiac Malformations
Cardiac malformations include atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, and patent ductus arteriosus. The occurrence of heart malformations may be related to gene mutations or influenced by environmental factors, such as maternal exposure to medications, radiation, or viral infections during pregnancy. Additionally, if the pregnant woman suffers from chronic diseases such as diabetes or hypertension, this may also increase the risk of fetal cardiac malformations.
4. Open Neural Tube Defects
Open neural tube defects mainly include spina bifida and anencephaly, which may lead to severe neurological dysfunction in the fetus. The occurrence of open neural tube defects may be closely related to both genetic and environmental factors. Genetic factors include family history and chromosomal abnormalities, while environmental factors include deficiencies in vitamins, folic acid, or exposure to toxic substances during pregnancy.
5. Congenital Intellectual Disability
Congenital intellectual disability is usually caused by chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, which may result in severe intellectual disability and delayed growth and development in the fetus. Additionally, viral infections, exposure to toxic substances, or medication use during pregnancy may also increase the risk of this malformation in the fetus.
Pregnant women should avoid exposure to harmful substances and environmental pollutants during pregnancy, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, or contact with toxic substances, as these risk factors can increase the likelihood of fetal developmental defects.
