CONGENITAL MALFORMATIONS

Abstract

Objective: To determine frequency, pattern of distribution of congenital malformations in newborn. Design: Cross-sectional
observational study. Place and Duration of study: Study was carried out in the Department of neonatology, Military Hospital Rawalpindi during
the period of January 2008 to Dec 2008. Patients and methods: All the newborns were examined and mothers were interviewed. Baby's
antenatal record was also noted and recorded in a Performa. Antenatal ultrasonography record was also recorded. Any internal malformation
was also noted. Babies who were found to have any malformations were screened for the congenital malformations. Screening was done with
latest laboratory tests , radiological evidences and chromosomal studies for suspected trisomies. Result: Congenital anomalies were noted
in a Performa. Neural tube defect (NTD) was found to be the commonest type of anomaly. Among the most frequent NTD were hydrocephalus
and menigomyelocele. Following that were the cardiac anomalies and genitourinary tract anomalies. Trisomy 21 was detected in two of the
babies while one newborn had trisomy 13. Conclusion: NTD were the most prevalent anomaly detected and early prenatal diagnosis is helpful
in decreasing the indirect prevalence of perinatal mortality by offering early termination. Folic acid supplementation should be advocated before
conception