Teratology refers to the study of abnormalities of physiological development. It covers defects or abnormalities that take place in various developmental stages including birth and puberty though it is typically considered as the study of birth defects. Teratology is also not limited to the study of humans and animals, other life forms such as plants are also covered among its subjects of study.
The term is derived from the Greek words téras (monster or marvel) and lógos (study of). Teratology started as early as the 17th Century when scientists explored the extraordinary and abnormal. The term was popularized in the sixties by University of Washington Medical School researcher Dr. David W. Smith.
In veterinary medicine, teratology is a division of embryology and pathology that deals with abnormal development and congenital deformations. In dentistry, on the other hand, it is the study of the reasons and consequences surrounding congenital malformations and developmental abnormalities.
This category is dedicated to various information and online resources that cover the topic of teratology. Also listed are organizations and institutions centered on or associated with teratology and teratogenic studies.