Congenital Craniofacial Anomalies amongst Neonates at Major Government Hospital in Bengaluru: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Craniofacial anomalies (CFAs) are a manifold group of malformations in the growth of the head and face. Congenital anomalies are the major cause for pregnancy termination, infant mortality as well as childhood morbidity. The occurrence of congenital CFAs in the Indian population remains unlashed. Objectives: The objective of the study is to assess the frequency of incidence and types of CFAs and also their association with maternal risk factors. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on the mothers/babies delivered for 60 days at Vanivilas Hospital, Bengaluru. The anomalies were broadly classified as major and minor, further by structure as cranial, oral, nasal, auricular, and ocular. Data were analyzed to determine the association of these anomalies with mother's age, gestational age, gender, and weight of the baby. Results: Out of 2251 deliveries, 158 were dead of which 12 (7.6%) had major CFAs. About 0.8% of major anomalies and 3.0% of minor anomalies occurred. The most common major craniofacial anomaly observed was anencephaly. In minor anomalies, anomalies of the oral cavity included gingival cyst, tongue-tie, epulis, and natal teeth. Mothers with age >35 years and gestational age <37 weeks had higher risk for major CFAs. Conclusions: This study provides baseline information for future prevention and better management of patients likely to have babies with congenital major and minor CFAs.