Neural Tube Closure Problem

Neural Tube Closure Problems

• Neural tube closure failure can lead to severe birth defects.
• Most severe defect: complete lack of closure (lethal in early pregnancy).

Two Major Neural Tube Defects

1. Spina Bifida: Posterior neuropore fails to close.
   • Consequences:
     • Exposed spinal cord (paralysis, loss of function).
     • Spinal cord pulling on brain (hydrocephalus, brain dysfunction).
     • Severity varies depending on opening size.
   • Treatment: Surgery (including prenatal intervention).
2. Anencephaly: Anterior neuropore fails to close.
   • Consequences:
     • Exposed brain (disintegrates over time).
     • Lethal condition (most die before or shortly after birth). Other Neural Tube Defects

• Encephalocele: Neural tube defect occurring after day 28.
  • Cyst containing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or CSF and brain tissue.
  • Prognosis depends on content (CSF has better outcome).
  • Treatment: Surgery.

Preventing Neural Tube Defects

• Neural tube closure occurs in the 4th week of pregnancy (often before pregnancy is known).
• Folate supplementation of grains:
  • Reduces occurrence by about 70%.
  • Not effective in all cases.
• Challenges:
  • Not all foods fortified with folate (e.g., gluten-free).
  • Dietary habits may not provide sufficient folate intake.

Conclusion

• Neural tube defects are serious but preventable in many cases.
• Folate supplementation has significantly reduced their occurrence.
• Further research needed to address remaining cases.