Teratogens are substances known to have the capability to cause malformations to an embryo or fetus.

Teratogens are substances known to have the capability to cause malformations to an embryo or fetus.

• A. Malformations in an embryo or fetus.
• B. Acute poisoning in adults.
• C. Allergic reactions in children.
• D. Dehydration in newborns.

Answer: (A)

Teratogens are substances that can disrupt development and cause malformations in an embryo or fetus. This risk arises during pregnancy, especially when organs are forming, so the defining outcome is congenital malformations. That’s why describing malformations in an embryo or fetus is the best fit. The other scenarios—acute poisoning in adults, allergic reactions in children, or dehydration in newborns—are not the typical outcomes associated with teratogenic exposure, which centers on developmental defects rather than immediate toxicity or other conditions after birth.

Teratogens are substances that can disrupt development and cause malformations in an embryo or fetus. This risk arises during pregnancy, especially when organs are forming, so the defining outcome is congenital malformations. That’s why describing malformations in an embryo or fetus is the best fit. The other scenarios—acute poisoning in adults, allergic reactions in children, or dehydration in newborns—are not the typical outcomes associated with teratogenic exposure, which centers on developmental defects rather than immediate toxicity or other conditions after birth.