What are spina bifida and anencephaly?

Spina bifida and anencephaly are two major NTD (Neural Tube Defect) birth defects that occur during the fourth and the sixth week of pregnancy, before most women know that they are pregnant. Spina bifida is a disorder where the lower end of the neural tube fails to close. As a result of which, the spinal cord and back bones do not develop properly. At times, a sac of fluid is observed to protrude through an opening in the back. Often this can be observed as a node protruding outside on the lower portion of backbone. Portion of the spinal cord is often contained in this sac. This may result into several disorders viz. loss of bowel and bladder control, paralysis of the infant's legs, water in the brain (hydrocephalus), and learning disabilities. Anencephaly is a fatal condition where, the upper end of the neural tube fails to close. This results in the improper development of brain and in some cases it is totally absent. Pregnancies affected by anencephaly often result in miscarriages whereas Infants who are born alive, die very soon after birth. In order to avoid such disorders, it is important to include 400 micrograms of folic acid in every woman's diet at childbearing age.

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Keywords: NTD spina bifida anecephaly Spinal nodes

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