Congenital malformations and transplacental cancers

The development of the mammalian embryo can be impaired by physical and chemical exogenous agents, leading to congenital malformations or tumours. These accidents represent at present the main cause of perinatal mortality and postnatal morbidity. The principles of teratogenicity and of transplacental cancers are analysed and the therapeutical implications of the prenatal pathology are examined.