Neural Tube Defect Spectrum - Study of Craniorachischisis.

ABSTRACT

Neural tube defect spectrum (NTD) includes anencephaly, spina bifida, craniorachischisis, inencephaly etc. Four cases of craniorachischisis were studied from a collection of 34 aborted fetuses. There was deficiency of scalp and cranial vault in all the four cases. In one case the defect was extending up to the cervical region, in rest of the three cases, vertebral column defect extended upto thoracic region exposing the spinal cord and spinal nerves. All the cases presented with bulging eyes, broad nose, folded ears, protruded tongue and absent neck. These defects result due to failure of closure of the neural tube during early embryonic life.