Iniencephaly
Iniencephaly is a rare and severe type of neural tube defect characterized by extreme retroflexion (backward bending) of the head combined with severe distortion of the spine. This congenital malformation is often incompatible with life.
Presentation[edit | edit source]
Iniencephaly is typically identified at birth due to its distinctive physical features. The most notable characteristic is the extreme retroflexion of the head, where the face looks upward. The skin of the face is connected directly to the chest, and the scalp is connected to the back. This condition is often associated with other anomalies such as anencephaly, encephalocele, and spina bifida.
Pathophysiology[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of iniencephaly is not well understood, but it is believed to result from a failure of the neural tube to close properly during the early stages of embryonic development. This defect occurs around the third to fourth week of pregnancy. The malformation involves the occipital bone, cervical vertebrae, and sometimes the upper thoracic vertebrae.
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Iniencephaly can be diagnosed prenatally through ultrasound imaging, which can reveal the characteristic retroflexion of the head and associated spinal abnormalities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be used to provide a more detailed view of the fetal anatomy.
Prognosis[edit | edit source]
The prognosis for iniencephaly is extremely poor. Most affected infants are stillborn or die shortly after birth due to severe complications, including respiratory failure and other vital organ malformations.
Epidemiology[edit | edit source]
Iniencephaly is an extremely rare condition, with an estimated incidence of 0.1 to 10 per 10,000 live births. It affects females more frequently than males.
Management[edit | edit source]
There is no cure for iniencephaly, and treatment options are limited. Prenatal diagnosis allows for early counseling and decision-making for the parents. In cases where the condition is detected early, parents may opt for termination of the pregnancy.
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References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
