The contribution of new findings and ideas to the old principles of teratology

• Published in: Reproductive toxicology (Elmsford, N.Y.) Vol. 20; no. 3; pp. 295 - 300
• Main Author: Jelinek, Richard
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01-09-2005
• Subjects: Adult; Animals; Congenital Abnormalities - etiology; Congenital Abnormalities - genetics; Contribution of molecular biology; Female; History, 19th Century; History, 20th Century; History, 21st Century; Humans; Molecular Biology; Pregnancy; Principles of teratology; Risk Assessment; Teratology - history; Teratology - methods; Teratology counseling; Contribution of molecular biology; Principles of teratology; Teratology counseling; Risk assessment
• ISSN: 0890-6238; 1873-1708
• DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2005.03.011

Although the last generally accepted concept of principles of teratology was issued more than 30 years ago, the cause of less than 50% of all congenital anomalies is known and no substantial change in their incidence has been observed worldwide. In the meantime, powerful techniques of molecular biology as well as many sophisticated preventive measures have been introduced with marginal effects on the overall birth defects numbers. In this paper, we follow the history of basic concepts of teratology starting with Isidore Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire and Dareste, followed in the 20th century by James Wilson. Since that time no bright and completely new idea, which would deserve the name principle, has emerged. The advanced molecular studies support the long-existing principles and disclose the great variability of individuals and their responses to adverse exposures. In this way, the future of teratology counseling may be seen in a deep analysis of any individual case.