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Chapter 43 - Neural Tube Anomalies: An Update on the Pathophysiology and Prevention

from Surgical Correction of Neural Tube Anomalies

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  21 October 2019

By
Alex J. Eggink  and
Regine P. M. Steegers-Theunissen
Edited by
Mark D. Kilby ,
Anthony Johnson  and
Dick Oepkes
Mark D. Kilby
Affiliation:
University of Birmingham
Anthony Johnson
Affiliation:
University of Texas Medical School at Houston
Dick Oepkes
Affiliation:
Leids Universitair Medisch Centrum
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Summary

Anomalies of the neural tube are a group of severe birth defects involving the central nervous system, with a global prevalence rate of approximately 1 in 1000 births [1]. The birth prevalence varies substantially between geographical locations, socioeconomic status and ethnic groups because of genetic and environmental differences, including maternal conditions, medication, toxins, nutrition, and lifestyle. Worldwide, each year approximately 130 000 newborns are born with a neural tube defect (NTD). The clinical spectrum of neural tube defects includes spina bifida, anencephaly, encephalocele, and although rare, craniorachischisis and iniencephaly. Spina bifida accounts for 57% of all NTDs, anencephaly 33%, and encephalocele 10%.

Type
Chapter
Information
Fetal Therapy
Scientific Basis and Critical Appraisal of Clinical Benefits
 , pp. 449 - 455
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2020

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