angeboren

Angeboren is a German adjective and adverb meaning congenital or inborn, referring to conditions or traits that are present at birth. In medical contexts, it describes diseases, anatomical features, or functional states that exist from birth rather than developing later. The term can apply to physical malformations, metabolic disorders, congenital infections, or hereditary syndromes, though not all such conditions are strictly genetic.

Etymology and scope: angeboren derives from the verb geboren (born) with the prefix an-, indicating that the attribute is present from birth. In English, the closest equivalents are congenital or inborn. The term is used broadly in medicine and everyday language to contrast with acquired states.

Causes and types: Congenital conditions can result from genetic mutations, chromosomal abnormalities, maternal infections, exposure to teratogens, or vascular problems during pregnancy. Some cases remain unexplained. Conditions may be structural (fehlbildungen), metabolic, infectious, or functional. They are typically identified at birth or during prenatal or neonatal screening.

Detection and management: Prenatal screening, including ultrasound and maternal tests, can detect some congenital conditions before birth. Newborn screening, clinical assessment, and imaging help with postnatal diagnosis. Management varies by condition and may involve monitoring, medical treatment, surgery, or long-term support. Prognosis depends on the specific disorder, timing of diagnosis, and available interventions.

Linguistic note: In everyday German, angeboren also describes innate qualities or talents, such as angeborene Fähigkeiten, meaning natural or inherited abilities. It contrasts with erworben, meaning acquired.