Frequent Craniofacial Malformations In Babies
Craniofacial malformations in infants are malformations in the growth of the head and bones on the face. These abnormalities occur at birth and can vary from minor to severe. In some cases, surgery may be needed to correct them.
We understand the importance of this topic and the questions future mothers might have about it. In this article, you will therefore find out everything you need to know about craniofacial malformations .
Craniofacial abnormalities are among the most common birth defects in infants. The most common craniofacial abnormalities are cleft lip and palate. These include deformities of the lips, nose, gums and mouth.
Some children are born with complex craniofacial diseases that also involve the jaw, eyelids, ears, and skull. These deformities affect a person’s appearance, but there is much more to it than that.
They also interfere with the language, feeding, hearing, seeing and breathing of an affected child. In other words, they have a profound impact on a child’s everyday life.
In any case, you should know that the symptoms of craniofacial malformations vary widely from case to case. They can range from very minor problems to serious problems related to vision, hearing, and learning.
Studies therefore confirm that craniofacial abnormalities are among the most common birth defects. While most cases are isolated and sporadic, these malformations are associated with a wide variety of genetic syndromes. A correct diagnosis can help parents deal with the disease appropriately and seek targeted advice.
Factors that cause craniofacial malformations in infants
Often specialists do not identify a single cause. In fact, there is a combination of factors that can play an important role in causing these deformities. These include genetic factors, folic acid deficiency, and environmental factors such as exposure to dangerous chemicals. We’ll discuss these in more detail below:
1. Genetic factors
Babies can receive a specific gene from one parent or a combination of genes from both parents. Or the genes may have changed at the time of conception.
2. Environmental factors
There is currently no data showing a direct relationship between certain drugs or chemicals and craniofacial abnormalities. However, doctors can ask parents if they have been exposed to such substances prenatally.
3. Folic acid deficiency
Folic acid is a B vitamin found in leafy vegetables, orange juice, and fortified grains. This vitamin plays an important role in preventing birth defects.
Experts believe that women who don’t get enough folic acid during pregnancy are at greater risk of having babies with certain congenital birth defects. These include, for example, cleft lip and palate.
Craniofacial Malformations: What Are The Most Common Types Of This Anomaly?
The following are some of the most common types of craniofacial abnormalities in infants:
- Cleft lip. This defect occurs when a child’s lips do not fully form.
- Cleft palate. An opening or gap that involves both sides of the palate. It can extend from the front of a child’s mouth to their throat.
- Plagiocephaly. An asymmetrical, deformed shape of the head as a result of repeated pressure on the same part of the head.
- Hemifacial microsomia. Tissue on one side of the face is underdeveloped. This mainly affects the ear, mouth and jaw areas.
- Craniosynostosis. The seams on the baby’s skull close too quickly. This creates problems with the normal growth of the brain and skull.
- Congenital vascular malformation. A birthmark or a growth made of blood vessels.
- Hemangioma. Blood vessel with abnormal growth on the skin. It can be present at birth or appear in a baby’s first few months of life.
Available treatments for craniofacial malformations in babies
Craniofacial abnormalities are birth defects that affect a baby’s face or head. Of course, they can also affect other parts of the body.
Treatments are available for many craniofacial deformities. However, they vary widely, depending on the specific nature of the particular disease. Treatment depends on the type of problem.
At the same time, some minor defects do not require medical treatment, while others require surgical intervention. This is the case with cleft lips and palates.
However, some craniofacial defects are more serious and cause permanent damage. Nevertheless, there are treatments and aids that offer support to the affected children and their families.
In conclusion, there is not just one factor that leads to craniofacial abnormalities in babies. Rather, there are several factors that can contribute to their development: genetics, environmental factors and a lack of folic acid.
