Includes glossary.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction to molecular regulation and signaling -- Gametogenesis: conversion of germ cells into male and female gametes -- First week of development: ovulation to implantation -- Second week of development: bilaminar germ disc -- Third week of development: trilaminar germ disc -- Third to eighth weeks: the embryonic period -- The gut tube and the body cavities -- Third month to birth: the fetus and placenta -- Birth defects and prenatal diagnosis -- The axial skeleton -- Muscular system -- Limbs -- Cardiovascular system -- Respiratory system -- Digestive system -- Urogenital system -- Head and neck -- Central nervous system -- Ear -- Eye-- Integumentary system.