Neural Tube Defects (NTDs)

Birth defects of the brain and spinal cord are known as neural tube defects. Most common is:

• Spina Bifida is damage to the spinal cord because the tube that forms the cord does not close properly. Spina bifida causes nerve paralysis below the affected area on the spine. Patients can lack bladder and bowel control, as well as difficulty walking, because of pressure on the brain. Spina bifida can be fatal.
• Anencephaly is an even more serious neural tube defect. Because much of the brain is under developed, babies with anencephaly are stillborn or die shortly after birth.

Prevention

Most neural tube defects can be prevented by folic acid intake. The pregnant woman must get enough folic acid (folate) before and during pregnancy. The recommendation is 400 micrograms of folic acid each day. All women of childbearing age should heed this advice. The neural tube develops in the first four weeks of pregnancy. Folic acid is available in many foods, multivitamins, and folic acid pills. Check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Treatment

Some mild versions of spina bifida need minimal treatment; while more severe cases will require surgery. Physical therapy may also help a child walk, sometimes with assistance from walkers or leg braces.