Neural Tube Defect

1.    What is a neural tube defect (NTD) in neonates?

• NTD is severe birth defects of the central nervous system.

•   Human NTDs are multifactorial, with contributions from both genetic and environmental factors.

• defects develop very early during pregnancy in the first 26 day of pregnancy.

• NTDs are a spinal cord defect and a brain defect.

Explain the embryological basis of neural tube defects.

• starts during the 3rd and 4th week of gestation.

• This process is called secondary neurulation, and it begins with an open neural plate, then ends with the neural plate bending in specific, distinct steps.

• beginnings of the embryo’s nervous system (the neural tube) failing to close completely after birth.

• This neural tube serves as the embryonic brain and spinal cord, the central nervous system.

What are the risk factors associated with the development of neural tube defects in neonates?

• Insufficient intake of folic acid (a B-vitamin) before and during early pregnancy

• Using a hot tub or sauna while pregnant

• Certain antiseizure medication.

• Exposed to direct sunlight and forest fires.

Discuss the long-term prognosis and quality of life for neonates with neural tube defects.

• Many people with meningocele can lead relatively normal lives without surgery.

• anencephaly is a severe NTD that is not compatible with life. They do not survive for an extended period after birth.

• Myelomeningocele this can result in varying degrees of paralysis, loss of sensation, and other complications.

• Babies with anencephaly are typically stillborn after birth.

What type of Brain defect in Neural Tube Defect?

• Spina Bifida Occulta

• Anencephaly

• Encephalocele

• Myelomeningocele

Which pictures are true?

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