Congenital disease
Congenital Disease
Congenital disease (pronunciation: /kənˈjenɪt(ə)l/), also known as congenital disorder or birth defect, is a condition that is present at birth, regardless of its cause. The term "congenital" comes from the Latin word "congenitus", which means "born with" or "existing from birth".
Definition
A congenital disease is a medical condition that is present at birth. It can be the result of genetic abnormalities, the intrauterine environment, or unknown factors. These diseases can be structural or functional anomalies, including metabolic disorders, which are usually evident during infancy or early childhood.
Types
There are many types of congenital diseases, including:
- Congenital heart disease: This is a problem with the heart's structure and function that is present at birth.
- Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: This is a birth defect of the diaphragm.
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia: This is a group of inherited genetic disorders that affect the adrenal glands.
- Congenital hypothyroidism: This is a condition of thyroid hormone deficiency present at birth.
Causes
The causes of congenital diseases can be genetic, environmental, or a combination of both. Some are due to chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, while others are caused by single-gene defects, such as cystic fibrosis. Environmental factors that the mother is exposed to during pregnancy, such as alcohol, drugs, certain infections, and some medications, can also cause congenital diseases.
Treatment
Treatment for congenital diseases depends on the specific condition. Some diseases require surgical intervention, while others may be managed with medication or physical therapy. Early intervention can often improve the outcome for individuals with congenital diseases.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Congenital disease
- Wikipedia's article - Congenital disease
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