Definition

Noun: A disease or disorder that is present from birth. It is typically caused by genetic factors, developmental problems during pregnancy, or environmental influences affecting the fetus. The term emphasizes the condition's existence at the time of birth.

Usage

The term "congenital disease" is a formal medical term used to classify and describe conditions a person is born with. It is often used in clinical, scientific, and public health contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Cystic fibrosis is a serious congenital disease that affects the lungs and digestive system.
  • Early screening can help in the diagnosis and management of some congenital diseases.
  • The study focused on the genetic origins of various congenital diseases.

Advanced Usage

• "Congenital" as an adjective: The word "congenital" is often used independently to describe conditions or traits present from birth.
  • He was born with a congenital heart defect.
• Inherited vs. Congenital: While many congenital diseases are inherited (passed through genes), not all are. Some are caused by infections or exposures during pregnancy. Conversely, not all inherited diseases are apparent at birth.

Variants and Related Words

• Birth defect (n): A less formal, often synonymous term for a congenital disease or disorder. It may sometimes imply a structural abnormality.
  • The ultrasound can detect certain birth defects.
• Genetic disorder (n): A disease caused by abnormalities in an individual's genome. Many, but not all, genetic disorders are congenital.
  • Huntington's disease is a genetic disorder that manifests later in life.
• Inborn error of metabolism (n): A specific subtype of congenital disease caused by defects in biochemical pathways.
  • Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an inborn error of metabolism.

Synonyms

• Inherited disease: A disease passed down from parents to offspring via genes.
• Hereditary disorder: Similar to inherited disease, emphasizing transmission through family lines.
• Birth disorder: A general term for any disorder present at birth.

Antonyms

• Acquired disease: A disease that develops after birth, caused by environmental factors, infections, or lifestyle choices.
  • Scurvy is an acquired disease resulting from vitamin C deficiency.

Noun

1. a disease or disorder that is inherited genetically