Neural tube defect
(Redirected from Lipomeningocele)
Neural Tube Defect[edit | edit source]
Neural tube defect (NTD) is a type of congenital defect characterized by the incomplete closure of the neural tube during embryonic development. This condition leads to openings in the brain, spinal cord, or the bones of the spine. Common types of NTDs include Spina bifida and encephalocele.
Overview[edit | edit source]
NTDs are among the most common birth defects, affecting the brain and spinal cord. They occur very early in pregnancy when the neural tube, which eventually becomes the brain and spinal cord, does not close completely.
Types[edit | edit source]
The main types of neural tube defects are:
- Spina bifida: The spinal bones do not close completely, leaving part of the spinal cord exposed.
- Anencephaly: A significant portion of the brain and skull does not develop.
- Encephalocele: A sac-like protrusion of the brain and the membranes that cover it through an opening in the skull.
Causes[edit | edit source]
The exact causes of NTDs are not known, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors are believed to play a role. Lack of folic acid during pregnancy is a significant risk factor.
Symptoms and Complications[edit | edit source]
Symptoms and complications depend on the type of NTD, but may include:
- Physical and neurological impairments
- Learning difficulties
- Mobility issues
- Increased risk of infections
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of NTDs can often be made prenatally through:
- Prenatal ultrasound
- Blood tests for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
- Amniocentesis
Treatment and Management[edit | edit source]
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the defect and may include:
- Surgery, often immediately after birth
- Long-term care for physical and neurological issues
- Rehabilitation therapies
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Prevention strategies include:
- Adequate intake of folic acid before and during early pregnancy
- Genetic counseling for families with a history of NTDs
References[edit | edit source]
- Green, A. J., & Smith, M. (2021). Neural Tube Defects: Current Perspectives. Journal of Pediatric Health.
- Patel, S. K., & Williams, L. (2020). Understanding and Preventing Neural Tube Defects. Birth Defects Research.
Neural tube defect Resources | |
---|---|
|
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Kondreddy Naveen