Summary about Disease
Harelip, more accurately known as cleft lip (with or without cleft palate), is a birth defect that occurs when the tissues of the lip and/or palate do not completely fuse during pregnancy. This results in an opening in the upper lip, which can range from a small notch to a large split extending to the nose. It can occur on one side (unilateral) or both sides (bilateral). Cleft lip can occur independently or alongside cleft palate (an opening in the roof of the mouth).
Symptoms
The primary symptom of a cleft lip is a visible split in the upper lip. Other symptoms can include:
A split in the lip and/or palate.
A split in the lip that extends to the nose.
Difficulty with feeding, as the baby may have trouble creating suction.
Speech difficulties (if accompanied by cleft palate).
Ear infections (if accompanied by cleft palate).
Causes
The exact cause of cleft lip is often multifactorial, but is thought to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Known risk factors and potential causes include:
Genetic Predisposition: A family history of cleft lip or palate increases the risk.
Environmental Factors:
Certain medications taken during pregnancy (e.g., some anti-seizure drugs).
Maternal smoking or alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Nutrient deficiencies during pregnancy (e.g., folic acid).
Exposure to certain toxins or infections during pregnancy.
Syndromes: Cleft lip can sometimes be associated with specific genetic syndromes.
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used There is no "medicine" to cure cleft lip. Treatment primarily involves surgical repair. However, medicine may be used to manage associated problems:
Antibiotics: To treat ear infections.
Pain relievers: After surgery.
Specialized Feeding Equipment: Bottles and nipples designed to help infants with cleft lip and/or palate feed effectively.
Is Communicable
No, cleft lip is not communicable. It is a birth defect, not an infectious disease.
Precautions
There are no precautions to prevent the spread of cleft lip, as it is not contagious. However, to potentially reduce the risk of cleft lip in offspring, pregnant women can consider the following:
Prenatal Care: Regular prenatal checkups.
Folic Acid Supplementation: Taking folic acid supplements before and during pregnancy.
Avoiding Harmful Substances: Abstaining from smoking, alcohol, and illicit drugs during pregnancy.
Medication Review: Discussing all medications with a doctor before and during pregnancy.
Managing Underlying Health Conditions: Properly managing any existing health conditions, such as diabetes.
How long does an outbreak last?
Cleft lip is not an outbreak-related condition. It is a congenital condition present at birth.
How is it diagnosed?
Cleft lip is usually diagnosed during a prenatal ultrasound. After birth, it is diagnosed through a physical examination of the newborn.
Timeline of Symptoms
Prenatal: Can be detected during routine ultrasound scans in the second trimester (around 18-20 weeks) of pregnancy.
At Birth: Visible split in the upper lip is immediately apparent.
Infancy: Feeding difficulties may become evident in the days and weeks following birth.
Later Childhood (if untreated): Speech problems, dental issues, and social/emotional challenges may emerge.
Important Considerations
Multidisciplinary Care: Treatment requires a team approach involving surgeons, pediatricians, speech therapists, dentists, audiologists, and psychologists.
Surgical Repair: Surgery is usually performed in the first few months of life to close the lip. Additional surgeries may be needed later to refine the repair. Cleft palate repair is typically done later, around 6-18 months of age.
Feeding Support: Infants with cleft lip and/or palate often require specialized feeding techniques and equipment.
Speech Therapy: Important for addressing speech problems that may arise.
Emotional Support: Providing emotional support to the child and family is essential.
Long-Term Follow-Up: Ongoing monitoring for potential dental and speech issues.