Includes bibliographical references and index.

Embryology : old and new frontiers and an introduction to molecular regulation and signaling -- Gametogenesis : conversion of germ cells in to male and female gametes -- First week of development : ovulation to implantation -- Second week of development : bilaminar germ disc -- Thi rd week of development : trilaminar germ disc -- Third to eighth weeks : the embryonic period -- Third month to birth : the fetus and placenta -- Birth defects and prenatal diagnosis -- Skeletal system -- -- Muscu lar system -- Body cavities -- Cardiovascular system -- Respiratory sys tem -- Digestive system -- Urogenital system -- Head and neck -- Centra l nervous system -- Ear -- Eye -- Integumentary system.