Cleft lip and palate

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Cleft Lip and Palate

Cleft lip and cleft palate are types of birth defects that affect an infant's upper lip and mouth. A cleft lip creates an opening in the upper lip between the mouth and nose and a cleft palate occurs when the roof of the mouth has an opening into the nose.

Pronunciation

Cleft Lip: /klɛft lɪp/ Cleft Palate: /klɛft pælɪt/

Etymology

The term "cleft" comes from the Old English "cleofan" meaning to split or divide. "Lip" and "palate" are derived from the Old English "lippa" and Latin "palatum" respectively.

Causes

The exact cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown, but both genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role. Some research suggests that certain genetic mutations may increase the risk, while others indicate that exposure to certain environmental factors during pregnancy, such as certain medications or smoking, may also increase the risk.

Symptoms

The most obvious sign of a cleft lip or cleft palate is the physical split in the lip or roof of the mouth, which can be seen at birth. Other symptoms can include feeding difficulties, speech problems, and frequent ear infections.

Treatment

Treatment for cleft lip and cleft palate typically involves surgery to repair the cleft. This is usually done in the first few months of life for a cleft lip and before the child's first birthday for a cleft palate. Additional treatments, such as speech therapy or dental care, may also be needed.

Related Terms

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