Study of Congenital Malformations in a Tertiary Care Centre, Government General Hospital, Kakinada

Abstract

BACKGROUNDAny deviation from the normal during morphogenesis constitutes an anomaly. [1] Congenital anomaly or malformation is an abnormality of structure, function or body metabolism which is present at birth and results in physical or mental disability. It is an important cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity.The aim of the study is to determine the prevalence of congenital anomalies, types of anomalies and associated risk factors if any. MATERIALS AND METHODSThis was a hospital-based cross-sectional study over a period of one year in the Department of Radiodiagnosis, Rangaraya Medical College, Kakinada, AP. All congenital anomaly cases detected antenatally were included in the study. Cases were analysed to find out the prevalence, types of anomalies and its relation with risk factors including maternal age. RESULTSIncidence of foetal congenital anomalies were 0.7%. Out of 96 cases of congenital anomaly cases detected Central Nervous System (CNS) deformity was the commonest defect observed in 41 cases (42.7%), out of which maximum cases (32) had neural tube defect. Anomalies were found more in younger age group, in primi gravidae and in women with anaemia and in low socioeconomic group. Various risk factors were associated in 16 number of cases out of 96. CONCLUSIONIncidence of congenital anomalies were 0.7% and Neural Tube Defect (NTD) was the most common anomaly observed in our study. The risk factors are history of consanguinity (10.4%), previous history of abortions (3.13%) and family history of diabetes mellitus (2.08%). Routine anomaly scan is an important measure for early detection of malformations, primary prevention of disability and reducing perinatal mortality and morbidity.