00 Teratogenesis (introduction)

Question 1

Define Malformations

Answer 1

Part of the body that develops abnormally due to an intrinsic process

Question 2

Define Disruptions

Answer 2

Extrinsic interference or force resulting in breakdown of body part that would have developed normally

Question 3

Define Deformations

Answer 3

Abnormal force causing abnormal development

Question 4

What is the difference between Syndromes and Associations?

Answer 4

A syndrome is a set of medical signs and symptoms which are correlated with each other and often associated with a particular disease or disorder

Group of abnormalities that tend to occur together with an unknown cause

Question 5

Explain the VACTERL acronym

Answer 5

V - Vertabrel
A - Anal
C - Cardiac
T - Tracheo
E - Oesophageal
R - Renal
L - Limb

Question 6

List the 5 principles of Teratology

Answer 6

1. Susceptibility to teratogenesis depends on the genotype of the conceptus and the manner in which this genetic composition interacts with the environment
2. Susceptibility to teratogens varies with the developmental stage at the time of exposure
3. Manifestations of abnormal development depend on dose and duration of exposure to a teratogen
4. Teratogens act in specific ways (mechanism) on developing cells and tissues to initiate abnormal embryogenesis (pathogenesis)
5. Manifestations of abnormal development are death, malformation, growth retardation, and functional disorders