Neural Tube Defects
What are Neural Tube Defects? Neural tube defects are serious birth defects which involve incomplete development of the brain, spinal cord and/or the protective coverings of the organs. There are…
Category: Fact Sheet Excerpt
Moebius Syndrome
What is Moebius Syndrome? Moebius syndrome is a rare congenital disorder involving paralysis of the sixth and seventh cranial nerves. It causes limited eye movement, lack of facial expression, esotropia,…
Microcephaly
What is Microcephaly? Microcephaly is a rare condition in which the circumference of an infant or child’s head is smaller than normal. A child’s head is considered abnormally small if…
Limb Reduction Defects
What Are Limb Reduction Defects (LRDs)? LRDs involve missing tissue or bone in any part of a limb or limbs. LRDs can range in severity from missing fingers and toes…
Learning Disabilities
How Do You Know If A Child Has A Learning Disability? All children do not learn in the same way or at the same pace. But most children can master…
Immune Deficiency
What is Immune Deficiency? The immune system is the body’s defense system against harmful invaders like bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. Some parts of the immune system attack and destroy…
Congenital Hip Dysplasia
What is Congenital Hip Dysplasia? Congenital dislocation of the hip, also called congenital hip dysplasia, is a birth defect where the femoral head does not sit properly in the hip…
Hydrocephalus
What is Hydrocephalus? Hydrocephalus is a Greek word that means, waterhead. Hydrocephalus is an abnormal build up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain that causes ventricles to enlarge and…
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
What is Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome? Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is a congenital heart defect where the left ventricle, mitral valve, aortic valve, and ascending aorta are underdeveloped or absent,…
How to Get Services for Your Child
How to Get Services for Your Child If your child has been born with a birth defect or another disabling condition, you are not alone. There are many public and…
For daily information about new research on birth defects, visit our 