What is the commonly accepted cause of cleft lip in infants?

Cleft lip is commonly accepted to result from a complex interplay of both genetic and environmental factors. This multifactorial nature means that there isn't just one specific cause but rather an interaction of various elements that may contribute to the condition.

Genetic factors can include inherited traits from parents that predispose an infant to develop a cleft lip, while environmental factors might include maternal health factors, nutritional deficiencies, exposure to teratogens, and other influences during pregnancy. This combined effect can alter normal development and lead to congenital conditions such as cleft lip. Understanding this interaction is crucial for researchers and healthcare professionals as it emphasizes the importance of considering both hereditary and environmental influences when assessing risk factors for cleft lip in infants.

By acknowledging this complexity, clinicians can better approach prevention and treatment strategies, focusing on both genetic counseling and minimizing environmental risks during pregnancy.