Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

4-25-2025

Keywords

carcinogenesis, chromosome excess, congenital malformation, environmental teratogens, genetic variability, mutagenesis, teratogenic agents

Disciplines

Developmental Psychology

Abstract

Environmental teratogens are external agents that can increase the risk for carcinogenesis, malformations, mutagenesis, or deficient growth in an embryo or fetus. There are two general categories of teratogenic agents, which include errors in genetic processing, and environmental agents or factors. Both genetic and environmental teratogens can lead to embryopathology, but they have different pathologic processes. Errors in genetic processing can lead to abnormal development via gene abnormalities, chromosome deletion, chromosome excess, or chromosome rearrangement. Environmental teratogens, on the other hand, interact with the embryo during development, which can lead to congenital malformations and a multitude of other deficits. Environmental teratogens can include chemicals, drugs, radiation, and other factors.

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