No one really knows how thalidomide causes such abnormalities.

This disease, called congenital syphilis, can cause abnormalities or even death to the child.

Others have been shown to cause abnormalities in the cells lining the cervix.

People with diabetes often have high blood pressure, which can cause abnormalities in the small blood vessels of the brain and lead to stroke.

But, other conditions can cause abnormalities in menstrual bleeding.

Even low levels of lead can cause biochemical abnormalities and brain damage in children.

Drug abuse and alcoholism are known to cause cardiac abnormalities.

Seldane can cause fatal heart-rhythm abnormalities, particularly when it is taken with other drugs, the Federal agency said.

Major surgery and general anesthesia can cause severe metabolic abnormalities in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Other studies suggest similar low lead levels cause behavioral abnormalities in young children, particularly undue aggressiveness.