Some Genetic and Surgical Aspects of the Cleft Lip/ Cleft Palate Problem in Egypt

Abstract

Cairo, United Arab Republic For a better understanding of the etiology of cleft lip and palate, genetic studies of this malformation in various populations have been recommended (24). It is the purpose here to present the results of such a genetic study, the first of its kind in the Egyptian population, which is characterized by a very high consanguinity rate. One of the main objectives of the study was to disclose any significant role played by recessive genes in the etiology of this malformation. Optimum conditions for satisfactory surgical results under our present circumstances of preoperative, operative and postoperative care will also be discussed. Material It was possible to obtain accurate family and pregnancy histories and to examine the sibs and parents of 100 cleft lip and/or palate pa— tients who attended the pediatric surgery outpatient clinic for surgical correction of their deformity. The clinic provides services for children from different areas of the United Arab Republic including both upper and lower Egypt, but mainly from Cairo and its vicinity. Each pro— band was clinically examined and special investigations were made when indicated. A case record was filled out for each patient including personal and social data, family history, pregnancy history, and an ac— curate description of the orofacial malformation and of any associated malformation. Also obtained were other data of genetic importance, such as mother's age and father's age at time of birth of the proband, birth order, number of sibs, parental consanguinity, and its type. Presence of family members affected With