Can we predict orofacial cleft in future pregnancy?
Our data did not show that isolated clefts were not associated with a higher risk of chromosomal aberrations. Higher percentage of chromosomal aberrations found in isolated clefts in our pool can be explained by the age of the embryos and fetuses - usually between day 43 and week 12. It is nearly impossible to diagnose some associated congenital defects at such an early age. Thanks to the morphological and cytogenetic analysis of embryos and fetuses with orofacial cleft, it is possible to estimate if not determine the etiologic factor which influenced the miscarriage. Additionally, in the case of birth defects, the prognosis for future pregnancy can be offered, which is important information for gynecologist and clinical geneticist (Tab. 5, Fig. 5, Ref. 31).
Improvements in the advisories may be needed to ensure that the health of humans consuming fish from the Great Lakes is protected. In this region, total polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and mercury are the major contaminants causing restrictions on consuming fish, whereas dioxins/furans, toxaphene, and mirex/photomirex are of minor concern. Regular monitoring of most organochlorine pesticides and metals in fish can be discontinued.