Double neural tube defect: a case report and discussions on neural tube development.

OBJECTIVE: Double neural tube defect is a rare congenital problem. A case illustration and current literatures on neural tube closure theory are discussed. The available theories are summarised and compared with regard to the case report. CASE REPORT: A preterm baby with a parietal encephalocele and thoracic myelomeningocele is reported and management described. A two-staged surgery was performed. CONCLUSION: The present case, the first described in Southeast Asia, appears to support a multi-site closure theory.