A morphogenetic classification of craniofacial malformations.

A new classification of malformations of the face and cranium is proposed, based on embryologic studies and observations concerning a great number of patients seen by the authors. First of all, one should distinguish between cerebral craniofacial (with brain and/or eyes involved) and craniofacial malformations. Craniofacial malformations may be characterized by dysostosis and by synostosis. Malformations with dysostosis may be produced by transformation as well as differentiation defects. Synostosis is always caused by a differentiation defect. A new nomenclature is introduced.