title: The physically handicapped child--is active management justified?
abstract: Deformities can either be congenital in origin or acquired after an accident or particularly after extensive surgery for malignant disease. Many congenital anomalies, especially if associated with Down syndrome, or when major residual handicaps are anticipated, raise the ethical question of whether or not to treat them initially. The effect of major handicaps on the child, family and society are discussed. Certain congenital anomalies can now be prevented by amniocentesis and termination of pregnancy in the high-risk group, and some of the acquired deformities can also be prevented to a certain extent. Lastly, some aspects of the legal situation are mentioned.
mesh_terms: D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007883:Legislation, Medical; D008297:Male; D002666:Psychology, Child; D012919:Social Behavior