CLEFT LIP: ETIOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS, AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

Abstract

Cleft lip is a congenital malformation characterized by a fissure in the upper lip, resulting from failures in the fusion of facial structures during embryonic development, typically occurring between the fourth and seventh week of gestation. This condition can occur in isolation or in combination with cleft palate, affecting both the facial appearance and oral function of the individual, and its prevalence varies significantly according to ethnic, genetic, and environmental factors. It is more common in Asian populations and less frequent in African populations, reflecting a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental influences. Early diagnosis can be made through prenatal ultrasound or after birth, allowing for appropriate interventions and psychological support for parents. Treatment is multidisciplinary, involving surgery to correct the fissure, speech therapy for the proper development of speech, and psychological support to deal with the emotional and social challenges associated with the condition. Surgery is typically performed within the first few months of life, aiming to improve both the function and aesthetics of the patient, and may require a series of procedures over the years. Although the exact causes of cleft lip are not fully understood, recent advances in molecular genetics have expanded knowledge about the biological mechanisms leading to its development, highlighting the importance of both genetic and environmental factors in its occurrence and paving the way for new approaches to prevention and treatment.