Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction to the developing human -- First week of human development -- Second week of human development -- Third week of human development -- Fourth to eighth weeks of human development -- Ninth week to birth : the fetal period -- Placenta and fetal membranes -- Body cavities, mesenteries, and diaphragm -- Pharyngeal apparatus, face, and neck -- Respiratory system -- Alimentary system -- Urogenital system -- Cardiovascular system -- Skeletal system -- Muscular system -- Development of limbs -- Nervous system -- Development of eyes and ears -- Integumentary system -- Human birth defects -- Common signaling pathways used during development.