Amelia is a birth defect characterized by the absence of one or more limbs, as well as shrunken or otherwise deformed limbs. Meromelia refers to a partial absence of limb(s).
Amelia results from interruptions or preventions that occur during the intial stages of pregnancy (24-36 days following fertilization).
It has been suggested that Amelia can possibly be linked to health problems during this early stage such as failed abortions and infections.