hypoplasia of the mesenchymal tissues with subsequent failure of fusion. Maxillary and median nasal processes normally fuse between weeks 5 and 8 of intrauterine life
CLEFT PALATE- opening of the palate and occurs when the palatal process does not close as usual at approximately weeks 9 to 12 of intrauterine life; incomplete closure on the midline (anterior hard palate, the posterior soft palate, or both)
RISK FACTORS- Strong genetic component ~ First degree relatives
