Congenital Abnormalities

Question 1

What is a congenital abnormality?

Answer 1

An abnormality present at birth due to a problem with development in utero.

Question 2

When is a congenital abnormality most likely to occur?

Answer 2

during organogenesis (period where organs begin to develop), which occurs 15-60 days post-conception

Question 3

What is a teratogen?

Answer 3

any factor present in the environment of the embryo that causes a birth defect

Question 4

What are some examples of teratogens?

Answer 4

• thalidomide
• alcohol
• malnourishment
• infections

Question 5

What system is particularly sensitive to teratogens?

Answer 5

the CNS is particularly sensitive to teratogens and because of this birth defects will usually have some impact on the CNS