Anatomy & Histology · single question
Cleft lip is caused by a failure of fusion between which two embryologic processes?
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Correct answer: A. Medial nasal process and maxillary process
The upper lip forms from fusion of the medial nasal processes (which form the philtrum and the primary palate) with the maxillary processes on each side. Failure of this fusion (around weeks 5–7) produces cleft lip. Cleft palate, in contrast, is due to failure of fusion of the palatal shelves (secondary palate).
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