The role of folic acid in oral clefting.
The objective of this study is to describe the role of periconceptional folic acid supplementation and assess it's potential in the prevention of foetal abnormalities, and consists of a review of the literature undertaken using an electronic and hand search. This includes research trials and methodology associated with folic acid supplementation. It is recommended that all women planning to conceive should supplement their diet with folic acid in order to prevent abnormalities in neural tube development, particularly if there is a history of a previously affected pregnancy. There is increasing evidence that folic acid supplementation may, in addition, reduce the incidence of oral facial clefting. Further research with multi-disciplinary approaches in biochemistry, genetics, gene/environment interactions, and embryology are indicated.
Maxillofacial Unit, Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital, UK.
T
T
Hartridge
H M
HM
Illing
J R
JR
Sandy
D002971:Cleft Lip / Q000517:prevention & control; D002972:Cleft Palate / Q000517:prevention & control; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004777:Environment; D005260:Female; D005333:Fetus / Q000187:drug effects; D005492:Folic Acid / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D019767:Maxillofacial Abnormalities / Q000196:embryology / Q000235:genetics / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009436:Neural Tube Defects / Q000517:prevention & control; D011247:Pregnancy; D020011:Protective Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D020011:Protective Agents; D005492:Folic Acid