[On certain embryopathies induced by teratogenic agents (author's transl]

Abstract

In a survey of the literature the teratogenic effects of radiation and some drugs are discussed. Teratogenicity is proved for thalidomide, aminopterin, busulfan, cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil, mercaptopurin and diphenylhydantoin, trimethadione and warfarin. After the thalidomide-tragedy drug-induced malformations of the embryo are extremely rare, whereas malformations due to alcohol are rather frequent. Own experiences with more than 70 patients with alcoholembryopathy are reported. Nicotin seems not to be teratogenic, but due to nicotin the perinatal mortality is elevated. The questionable teratogenic effects of Heroin and LSD are discussed.