Deutsche medizinische Wochenschrift
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This review describes the recognition and effects of thalidomide as a potent teratogenic agent sixty years ago. A systematic analysis revealed a broad spectrum of multiple congenital birth defects involving many organ systems. ⋯ In contrast to Europe and Canada, the thalidomide embryopathy did not occur in the United States of America: A physician responsible at the FDA had noted inconsistencies in the description of thalidomide. The GDR, too, did not market the drug.