Congenital Disorders

Generalized name for birth defects that are present at birth. They can be the result of genetic abnormalities, the intrauterine environment (teratogenic) such as dietary deficiencies, toxic effects, or infections, or unknown factors (sporadic). They can be recognized before birth (prenatally), at birth, or many years later. Birth defects can be grouped into 6 major classes: genetic defects, mouth or facial defects, heart defects, musculoskeletal defects, stomach or intestinal defects, and eye defects.  There are several hundred known forms of birth defects.