Inconsistent use of terminology in animal developmental toxicology studies: a discussion.

The usage and meaning of terminology in teratology studies varies from laboratory to laboratory. This variability often causes confusion on the part of those reading and attempting to interpret the results published in papers and technical reports. Terms often used to categorize individual findings include embryotoxicity, fetotoxicity, teratogenicity, and maternal toxicity. One reason for the variability in the meaning of these words may be the inconsistency in the categorization of data leading up to the interpretation of the results. A more standardized use of these terms would allow more consistent interpretation and comparison of the data presented in teratology reports. This communication discusses some of these inconsistencies and offers suggestions that might help improve the situation.