Anencephaly: Difference between revisions

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{{SI}}
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{{CMG}}; {{AE}}
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'''For patient information click [[{{PAGENAME}} (patient information)|here]]'''
'''For patient information click [[{{PAGENAME}} (patient information)|here]]'''
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   Name          = Anencephaly |
   Name          = Anencephaly |
   Image          = Anencephaly side.jpg|
   Image          = Anencephaly side.jpg|
   Caption        = The side view of the head of an anencephalic fetus|
   Caption        = The side view of the head of an anencephalic fetus.
 
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/|
   DiseasesDB    = 705 |
   DiseasesDB    = 705 |
   ICD10          = {{ICD10|Q|00|0|q|00}} |
   ICD10          = {{ICD10|Q|00|0|q|00}} |
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==Overview==
==Overview==
'''Anencephaly''' is a [[cephalic disorder]] that results from a [[neural tube defect]] that occurs when the cephalic (head) end of the neural tube fails to close, usually between the 23rd and 26th day of [[pregnancy]], resulting in the absence of a major portion of the brain, skull, and [[scalp]]. [[Children]] with this disorder are born without a [[forebrain]], the largest part of the brain consisting mainly of the [[telencephalon|cerebral hemispheres]] (which include the isocortex, which is responsible for higher level [[cognition]], i.e., thinking). The remaining brain tissue is often exposed - not covered by bone or skin.
'''Anencephaly''' is a [[cephalic disorder]] in which there is the partial or total absence of the [[brain]]. It is an open [[neural tube defect]] occurs when the rostral ([[head]]) end of the neural tube fails to close resulting in the absence of a major portion of the [[brain]], [[skull]] and [[spinal cord]]. [[Children]] with this disorder are born without a [[forebrain]], the largest part of the brain consisting mainly of the [[telencephalon|cerebral hemispheres]] which is responsible for higher [[cognition|cognitive functions]] and [[cerebellum]] which control balance and movement. However, [[hindbrain]] is developed. The remaining brain tissue is often exposed - not covered by bone or skin.


==Historical Perspective==
==Historical Perspective==
* Anencephaly was first recognized in the 16th century. In 1989, [[Aubrey Milunsky]] and his colleagues observed a [[reduction]] in the [[cases]] of [[neural tube defects]] in the [[mothers]] who took [[folic acid]] [[supplements]] during [[pregnancy]].<ref name="pmidPMID: 2478730">{{cite journal| author=Milunsky A, Jick H, Jick SS, Bruell CL, MacLaughlin DS, Rothman KJ | display-authors=etal| title=Multivitamin/folic acid supplementation in early pregnancy reduces the prevalence of neural tube defects. | journal=JAMA | year= 1989 | volume= 262 | issue= 20 | pages= 2847-52 | pmid=PMID: 2478730 | doi=10.1001/jama.262.20.2847 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=2478730  }} </ref>
* In 1992, Thresa was born with anencephaly. Her parents knew their daughter is going to [[die]]. So, they requested if her [[organs]] could be used for [[transplantation]]. This initiated a debate on anencephalic [[infant]] [[organ donation]].<ref name="pmidPMID 12774804">{{cite journal| author=Bard JS| title=The diagnosis is anencephaly and the parents ask about organ donation: now what? A guide for hospital counsel and ethics committees. | journal=West New Engl Law Rev | year= 1999 | volume= 21 | issue= 1 | pages= 49-95 | pmid=PMID 12774804 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=12774804  }} </ref>


==Classification==
==Classification==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!style="background: #4479BA; color: #FFFFFF; text-align: center;" |Type of Anencephaly
!style="background: #4479BA; color: #FFFFFF; text-align: center;" |Clinical features
|-
| align="center" style="background:#ADD8E6;" |Meroanencephaly<ref name="pmidPMID 8286034">{{cite journal| author=Isada NB, Qureshi F, Jacques SM, Holzgreve W, Tout MJ, Johnson MP | display-authors=etal| title=Meroanencephaly: pathology and prenatal diagnosis. | journal=Fetal Diagn Ther | year= 1993 | volume= 8 | issue= 6 | pages= 423-8 | pmid=PMID 8286034 | doi=10.1159/000263862 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=8286034  }} </ref>
|Meroanencephaly is a [[rare]] form of anencephaly. [[Fetus]] [[born]] have [[clinical features]] including [[misshape]]n [[skull]] [[bones]] and a [[vascular]] [[tissue]] [[protuberance]] called cerebrovasculosa.
|-
| align="center" style="background:#ADD8E6;" |Holoanencephaly<ref name="pmidPMID 8286034" />
|It is the most common type of anencephaly. In this [[condition]], the entire [[fetus]] [[brain]] fails to [[develop]] except for the [[brain stem]]. Usually, [[infant]] survives for only one day after [[birth]].
|-
| align="center" style="background:#ADD8E6;" |Craniorachischisis<ref name="pmidPMID: 25032496">{{cite journal| author=Greene ND, Copp AJ| title=Neural tube defects. | journal=Annu Rev Neurosci | year= 2014 | volume= 37 | issue=  | pages= 221-42 | pmid=PMID: 25032496 | doi=10.1146/annurev-neuro-062012-170354 | pmc=4486472 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25032496  }} </ref>
|It is the most [[severe]] [[type]] of anencephaly. Along with the [[cranial]] [[defect]], [[fetus]] also has a [[defect]] in the [[vertebral column]] exposing the underlying [[neural tissue]]. [[Area cerebrovasculosa]] and [[area medullovasculosa]] fill the areas with [[cranial]] and [[spinal]] [[defects]].
|}


==Pathophysiology==
==Pathophysiology==
The cause of anencephaly is disputed.  
* By the 3rd week of gestation, the embryo has 3 layers, from outer to inner these layers are [[ectoderm]], [[mesoderm]] and [[endoderm]]. [[Notochord]] in the [[mesoderm]] sends signal molecule called [[Sonic Hedgehog]] protein to the overlying ectoderm forming it a [[neuroectoderm]].<ref>[[Neuroectoderm]] becomes a [[neural plate]].{{cite web|url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK542285/|title=Embryology, Neural Tube - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf|format=|work=|accessdate=}}</ref>


==Etiology and Risk factors==
* The [[neural plate]] folds and closes to form a tube-like structure called [[neural tube]] and [[neural crest cells]]. The [[neural tube]] then goes on to form structures of the adult [[brain]].<ref>{{cite book | last = Sadler | first = T. W. | title = Langman's medical embryology | publisher = Lippincott Williams & Wilkins | location = Philadelphia | year = 2006 | isbn = 9780781794855 }}</ref>
===Folate deficiency===
===Drugs===
<br />
===Genetics===
[[Neural tube defects]] do not follow direct patterns of [[heredity]], though there is some indirect evidence of inheritance<ref name="pmid2333913">{{cite journal |author=Shaffer LG, Marazita ML, Bodurtha J, Newlin A, Nance WE |title=Evidence for a major gene in familial anencephaly |journal=Am. J. Med. Genet. |volume=36 |issue=1 |pages=97–101 |year=1990 |pmid=2333913 |doi=10.1002/ajmg.1320360119}}</ref>, and recent animal models indicating a possible association with deficiencies of the [[transcription factor]] [[TEAD2]].<ref name="pmid17868131">{{cite journal |author=Kaneko KJ, Kohn MJ, Liu C, Depamphilis ML |title=Transcription factor TEAD2 is involved in neural tube closure |journal=Genesis |volume=45 |issue=9 |pages=577–87 |year=2007 |pmid=17868131 |doi=10.1002/dvg.20330}}</ref> The motivation behind studying the genetic patterns is following:
# [[NTDs]] are consistently prevalent among monozygotic twins as compared to dizygotic twins
# There is a high recurrence rate within families. Statistics show the recurrence risk of 1/20 if one previous pregnancy is affected and 1/10 if two pregnancies are affected in a family.
# Due to predilection towards female fetuses as compared to male
===Syndromes===
Anencephaly is associated with
#Trisomy 13 or 18
#Meckel-Gruber syndrome
#Roberts syndrome
#Jarcho-Levin syndrome
#HARD (hydrocephalus, agyria and retinal dysplasia)
#OEIS complex (omphalocele, exstrophy of the cloaca, imperforate anus and spinal defects)
#Limb-body wall complex (LBWC)
===Fever/hyperthermia===
If pregnant mother’s core body temperature elevates from baseline it could lead to congenital anomalies such neural tube defects, including anencephaly. The risk is more profound if this happens during the first trimester as this is the time during which organogenesis takes place. The National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS) infers that the risk of birth defects due to maternal infection-related fever can be reduced by the usage of acetaminophen.


===Amniotic bands===
* A [[neural tube defect]] occurs if the the opening of the [[neural tube]], called [[neuropore]], fails to close in the 4th week of [[gestation]]. [[Neural tube]] has two [[neuropores]], rostral and caudial. [[Anencephaly]] results from failure of the [[rostral]] [[neuropore]] to close [[anteriorly]] around day 25.<ref name="pmidPMID: 25032496">{{cite journal| author=Greene ND, Copp AJ| title=Neural tube defects. | journal=Annu Rev Neurosci | year= 2014 | volume= 37 | issue=  | pages= 221-42 | pmid=PMID: 25032496 | doi=10.1146/annurev-neuro-062012-170354 | pmc=4486472 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25032496  }} </ref>
If a pregnant mother develops amniotic bands, it could effect the normal development and growth of the central nervous system. It could result in neural tube defects including anencephaly
===Pregestational diabetes===
If a woman has uncontrolled [[diabetes mellitus]] before conception, it could result in neural tube defects including anencephaly. Therefore, close monitoring of periconceptional glycemic level is essential to prevent neural tube defects and other congenital anomalies.


===Maternal Obesity===
* The craniofacial abnormalities in anencephaly are caused by abnormal induction by the neural crest cells.<ref name="pmidPMID 16225807">{{cite journal| author=Sarnat HB, Flores-Sarnat L| title=Embryology of the neural crest: its inductive role in the neurocutaneous syndromes. | journal=J Child Neurol | year= 2005 | volume= 20 | issue= 8 | pages= 637-43 | pmid=PMID 16225807 | doi=10.1177/08830738050200080101 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=16225807  }} </ref>
[[Obesity]] doubles the risk of [[neural tube defects]]. Also, it provides a limitation to fetal imaging. Folate acid supplementation does not decrease this risk.


===Toxins===
==Clinical Features==
Anencephaly and other physical and mental deformities have also been blamed on a high exposure to such toxins as [[lead]], [[chromium]], [[mercury]], and [[nickel]]. <ref>Goldsmith, Alexander (1996, quoted by Millen and Holtz, "Dying for Growth")</ref>
*[[Infants]] born with anencephaly have the following clinical features:<ref name="pmidPMID: 25386414">{{cite journal| author=Gole RA, Meshram PM, Hattangdi SS| title=Anencephaly and its associated malformations. | journal=J Clin Diagn Res | year= 2014 | volume= 8 | issue= 9 | pages= AC07-9 | pmid=PMID: 25386414 | doi=10.7860/JCDR/2014/10402.4885 | pmc=4225866 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25386414  }} </ref>
**Facial features: [[Cleft lip]], [[cleft palate]].
**CNS: Absence of bony covering over the back of the [[head]], [[spina bifida]], [[blindness]], [[deafness]].
**GIT: Absence or underdeveloped [[organs]], [[gastroschisis]], [[omphalocele]].
**Genito-urinary system: [[Hypospadia]]s, penile [[hypoplasia]], renal [[agenesis]].
**Skeletal system: [[Clubbed foot]], clubbed hands.
**Lungs: Diapharagmatic [[hernia]].


==Differentiating Anencephalopathy from other Disorders==
==Differentiating Anencephalopathy from other Disorders==
There are many false diagnoses for anencephaly, as it is not a common diagnosis, often confused with [[exencephaly]] or [[microcephaly]].
At times, anencephaly could be [[misdiagnosed]] with other similar [[diagnosis]] such as;
* [[exencephaly]]  
* [[microcephaly]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://psychology.wikia.org/wiki/Anencephaly |title=Anencephaly &#124; Psychology Wiki &#124; Fandom |format= |work= |accessdate=}}a</ref>


==Epidemiology and Demographics==
==Epidemiology and Demographics==
===Incidence===
===Incidence===
In the [[United States]], approximately 1,000 to 2,000 babies are born with anencephaly each year. In 2001, the [[National Center for Health Statistics]] reported 9.4 cases among 100,000 live births
In the [[United States]], approximately 1,000 to 2,000 babies are born with anencephaly each year. In 2001, the National Center for Health Statistics reported 9.4 cases among 100,000 [[live births]].<ref name="pmidPMID: 12353510">{{cite journal| author=Mathews TJ, Honein MA, Erickson JD| title=Spina bifida and anencephaly prevalence--United States, 1991-2001. | journal=MMWR Recomm Rep | year= 2002 | volume= 51 | issue= RR-13 | pages= 9-11 | pmid=PMID: 12353510 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=12353510  }} </ref> Anually, more than 300,000 babies are born with [[neural tube defects]] throughout the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hup.harvard.edu/catalog.php?isbn=9780674383357 |title=Health Dimensions of Sex and Reproduction — Christopher J. L. Murray, Alan D. Lopez &#124; Harvard University Press |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>


===Demographics===
===Demographics===
The highest prevalence has been seen among the Hispanic population. Female babies, whites and children born to mothers who are at extreme of ages are more likely to be affected by the disorder. Worldwide, Ireland and British Islands has higher prevalence as compared to Asia and Africa which has a lower prevalence rate.
In [[United States]], the highest [[prevalence]] has been seen among the Hispanic <ref>[[population]].{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefectscount/data.html |title=Folic Acid & Neural Tube Defects: Data & Statistics &#124; CDC |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>. [[Female]] babies, [[whites]] and [[children]] born to mothers who are at extreme of ages are more likely to be affected by the disorder. [[Worldwide]], [[Ireland]] and British Islands has higher [[prevalence]] as compared to Asia and Africa which has a lower [[prevalence]] rate.<ref name="pmid12790881">{{cite journal| author=Frey L, Hauser WA| title=Epidemiology of neural tube defects. | journal=Epilepsia | year= 2003 | volume= 44 Suppl 3 | issue=  | pages= 4-13 | pmid=12790881 | doi=10.1046/j.1528-1157.44.s3.2.x | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=12790881  }} </ref>
 
===Recurrence rate===
===Recurrence rate===
Like any other [[neural tube defect]], the [[recurrence rate]] of [[anencephaly]] is 2-4% if one sibling is affected and 10 percent if two siblings are affected. This familial tendency is due to genetics, environmental factors, or both.
Like any other [[neural tube defect]], the [[recurrence rate]] of anencephaly is 2-4 percent if one sibling is affected and 10 percent if two siblings are affected.<ref name="pmidPMID: 7405962">{{cite journal| author=Cowchock S, Ainbender E, Prescott G, Crandall B, Lau L, Heller R | display-authors=etal| title=The recurrence risk for neural tube defects in the United States: a collaborative study. | journal=Am J Med Genet | year= 1980 | volume= 5 | issue= 3 | pages= 309-14 | pmid=PMID: 7405962 | doi=10.1002/ajmg.1320050314 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=7405962  }} </ref><ref name="pmidPMID: 6614048">{{cite journal| author=Toriello HV, Higgins JV| title=Occurrence of neural tube defects among first-, second-, and third-degree relatives of probands: results of a United States study. | journal=Am J Med Genet | year= 1983 | volume= 15 | issue= 4 | pages= 601-6 | pmid=PMID: 6614048 | doi=10.1002/ajmg.1320150409 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=6614048  }} </ref>  This familial tendency is due to genetics, environmental factors, or both.<ref name="pmidPMID: 19918803">{{cite journal| author=Copp AJ, Greene ND| title=Genetics and development of neural tube defects. | journal=J Pathol | year= 2010 | volume= 220 | issue= 2 | pages= 217-30 | pmid=PMID: 19918803 | doi=10.1002/path.2643 | pmc=4239538 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=19918803  }} </ref>


==Risk Factors==
==Risk Factors==
Studies show that a woman who has had one child with a neural tube defect such as anencephaly, has about a 3% risk to have another child with a neural tube defectIt is known that women taking certain medication for [[epilepsy]] and women with insulin dependent diabetes have a higher chance of having a child with a neural tube defect. [[Genetic counseling]] is usually offered to women at a higher risk of having a child with a neural tube defect to discuss available testing.
===Folate deficiency===
 
* Studies show that most of the [[neural tube defects]] are caused by [[folic acid]] [[deficiency]]<ref name="pmidPMID: 23790957">{{cite journal| author=Copp AJ, Stanier P, Greene ND| title=Neural tube defects: recent advances, unsolved questions, and controversies. | journal=Lancet Neurol | year= 2013 | volume= 12 | issue= 8 | pages= 799-810 | pmid=PMID: 23790957 | doi=10.1016/S1474-4422(13)70110-8 | pmc=4023229 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23790957  }} </ref>.
* This inadequate [[folate]] could be due to less oral intake, decreased intestinal absorption, or due to abnormal folate metabolism due to gene mutation. Some drugs [[antagonize]] the effect of [[folic acid]] resulting in [[folic acid]] [[deficiency]] and hence [[NTD]]. Most important ones are [[anti-epileptic drugs]] such as [[valproic acid]] and [[carbamazepine]]. Also, [[methotrexate]], which is an antineoplastic drug also used for the treatment of [[ectopic pregnancy]], has been linked with increased risk of [[NTD]].<ref name="pmidPMID: 15151734">{{cite journal| author=Wen SW, Walker M| title=Risk of fetal exposure to folic acid antagonists. | journal=J Obstet Gynaecol Can | year= 2004 | volume= 26 | issue= 5 | pages= 475-80 | pmid=PMID: 15151734 | doi=10.1016/s1701-2163(16)30658-2 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=15151734  }} </ref>
 
===Genetics===
[[Neural tube defects]] do not follow direct patterns of [[heredity]], though there is some indirect evidence of [[inheritance]].<ref name="pmid2333913">{{cite journal |author=Shaffer LG, Marazita ML, Bodurtha J, Newlin A, Nance WE |title=Evidence for a major gene in familial anencephaly |journal=Am. J. Med. Genet. |volume=36 |issue=1 |pages=97–101 |year=1990 |pmid=2333913 |doi=10.1002/ajmg.1320360119}}</ref> Recent animal models indicate a possible association with deficiencies of the [[transcription factor]] [[TEAD2]].<ref name="pmid17868131">{{cite journal |author=Kaneko KJ, Kohn MJ, Liu C, Depamphilis ML |title=Transcription factor TEAD2 is involved in neural tube closure |journal=Genesis |volume=45 |issue=9 |pages=577–87 |year=2007 |pmid=17868131 |doi=10.1002/dvg.20330}}</ref>
 
The motivation behind studying [[genetic]] patterns is the following:
 
#[[Neural tube defect|NTDs]] are consistently prevalent among [[monozygotic twins]] as compared to [[dizygotic twins]].<ref name="pmidPMID: 6763438">{{cite journal| author=Windham GC, Bjerkedal T, Sever LE| title=The association of twinning and neural tube defects: studies in Los Angeles, California, and Norway. | journal=Acta Genet Med Gemellol (Roma) | year= 1982 | volume= 31 | issue= 3-4 | pages= 165-72 | pmid=PMID: 6763438 | doi=10.1017/s0001566000008254 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=6763438  }} </ref>
# There is a high [[recurrence]] [[rate]] within families. [[Statistics]] show the [[recurrence]] risk of 1/20 if one previous [[pregnancy]] is affected and 1/10 if two [[pregnancies]] are affected in a family.<ref name="pmidPMID: 27883265">{{cite journal| author=Ross ME, Mason CE, Finnell RH| title=Genomic approaches to the assessment of human spina bifida risk. | journal=Birth Defects Res | year= 2017 | volume= 109 | issue= 2 | pages= 120-128 | pmid=PMID: 27883265 | doi=10.1002/bdra.23592 | pmc=5388593 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=27883265  }} </ref>
# There is higher [[female]] [[preponderence]] as compared to the [[males]]. <ref name="pmidPMID: 18937341">{{cite journal| author=Deak KL, Siegel DG, George TM, Gregory S, Ashley-Koch A, Speer MC | display-authors=etal| title=Further evidence for a maternal genetic effect and a sex-influenced effect contributing to risk for human neural tube defects. | journal=Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol | year= 2008 | volume= 82 | issue= 10 | pages= 662-9 | pmid=PMID: 18937341 | doi=10.1002/bdra.20511 | pmc=2981339 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=18937341 }} </ref>
 
===Syndromes===
*Anencephaly is associated with:<ref name="pmidPMID: 23162285">{{cite journal| author=Phadke S, Agarwal M| title=Neural tube defects: A need for population-based prevention program. | journal=Indian J Hum Genet | year= 2012 | volume= 18 | issue= 2 | pages= 145-7 | pmid=PMID: 23162285 | doi=10.4103/0971-6866.100747 | pmc=3491283 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23162285  }} </ref>
**[[Trisomy 13]] or [[Trisomy 18]]
**[[Meckel-Gruber syndrome]]
**[[Roberts syndrome]]
**[[Jarcho-Levin syndrome]]
**HARD (hydrocephalus, agyria and retinal dysplasia)
**OEIS complex (omphalocele, exstrophy of the cloaca, imperforate anus and spinal defects)
**Limb-body wall complex (LBWC)
 
===Fever/hyperthermia===
 
* If a [[pregnant]] mother’s core body [[temperature]] elevates from baseline it could lead to [[congenital anomalies]] such [[neural tube defects]], including anencephaly.<ref name="pmidPMID: 14607798">{{cite journal| author=Li DK, Janevic T, Odouli R, Liu L| title=Hot tub use during pregnancy and the risk of miscarriage. | journal=Am J Epidemiol | year= 2003 | volume= 158 | issue= 10 | pages= 931-7 | pmid=PMID: 14607798 | doi=10.1093/aje/kwg243 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=14607798  }} </ref><ref name="pmidPMID: 16933304">{{cite journal| author=Edwards MJ| title=Review: Hyperthermia and fever during pregnancy. | journal=Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol | year= 2006 | volume= 76 | issue= 7 | pages= 507-16 | pmid=PMID: 16933304 | doi=10.1002/bdra.20277 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=16933304  }} </ref>
* The risk is more profound if this happens during the [[first trimester]] as this is the time during which [[organogenesis]] takes place. The National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS) infers that the risk of [[birth defects]] due to [[maternal]] [[infection]]-related [[fever]] can be reduced by the usage of [[acetaminophen]].<ref name="pmid.PMID: 20027042">{{cite journal| author=Feldkamp ML, Meyer RE, Krikov S, Botto LD| title=Acetaminophen use in pregnancy and risk of birth defects: findings from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study. | journal=Obstet Gynecol | year= 2010 | volume= 115 | issue= 1 | pages= 109-15 | pmid=.PMID: 20027042 | doi=10.1097/AOG.0b013e3181c52616 | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=20027042  }} </ref>
 
===Amniotic bands===
 
* If a [[pregnant]] mother develops amniotic bands, it could affect the normal development and growth of the [[central nervous system]]. It could result in [[neural tube defects]] including [[anencephaly]].<ref name="pmid32310363">{{cite journal| author=| title=StatPearls | journal= | year= 2020 | volume=  | issue=  | pages=  | pmid=32310363 | doi= | pmc= | url= }} </ref>
 
===Pregestational diabetes===
 
* If a woman has uncontrolled [[diabetes mellitus]] before conception, it could result in [[neural tube defects]] including anencephaly.<ref name="pmidPMID: 18937341">{{cite journal| author=Deak KL, Siegel DG, George TM, Gregory S, Ashley-Koch A, Speer MC | display-authors=etal| title=Further evidence for a maternal genetic effect and a sex-influenced effect contributing to risk for human neural tube defects. | journal=Birth Defects Res A Clin Mol Teratol | year= 2008 | volume= 82 | issue= 10 | pages= 662-9 | pmid=PMID: 18937341 | doi=10.1002/bdra.20511 | pmc=2981339 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=18937341  }} </ref>
*Therefore, close monitoring of periconceptional [[glycemic level]] is essential to prevent [[neural tube defects]] and other [[congenital anomalies]].
 
===Maternal Obesity===


==Screening==
* [[Obesity]] doubles the risk of [[neural tube defects]]. Also, it provides a limitation to fetal imaging.<ref name="pmidPMID: 23301121">{{cite journal| author=Sukanya S, Bay BH, Tay SS, Dheen ST| title=Frontiers in research on maternal diabetes-induced neural tube defects: Past, present and future. | journal=World J Diabetes | year= 2012 | volume= 3 | issue= 12 | pages= 196-200 | pmid=PMID: 23301121 | doi=10.4239/wjd.v3.i12.196 | pmc=3538985 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=23301121  }} </ref>
*[[Folic acid]] supplementation does not decrease this risk of [[NTD]], therefore it is mandatory to control weight before conceiving.<ref name="MoussaHosseini Nasab2016">{{cite journal|last1=Moussa|first1=Hind N|last2=Hosseini Nasab|first2=Susan|last3=Haidar|first3=Ziad A|last4=Blackwell|first4=Sean C|last5=Sibai|first5=Baha M|title=Folic acid supplementation: what is new? Fetal, obstetric, long-term benefits and risks|journal=Future Science OA|volume=2|issue=2|year=2016|issn=2056-5623|doi=10.4155/fsoa-2015-0015}}</ref>


==Natural History, Complications, Prognosis==
===Toxins===
There is no cure or standard treatment for anencephaly and the prognosis for affected individuals is poor. Most anencephalic babies do not survive birth, accounting for 55% of non-aborted cases. If the infant is not [[stillborn]], then he or she will usually die within a few hours or days after birth from [[cardiorespiratory arrest]].


In almost all cases anencephalic infants are not aggressively [[resuscitation|resuscitated]] since there is no chance of the infant ever achieving a conscious existence. Instead, the usual clinical practice is to offer hydration, [[food|nutrition]] and comfort measures and to "let nature take its course". Artificial ventilation, surgery (to fix any co-existing congenital defects), and drug therapy (such as [[antibiotics]]) are usually regarded as futile efforts. Clinicians and medical ethicists may view the provision of nutrition and hydration as medically futile.  Occasionally some may even go one step further to argue that [[euthanasia]] is morally and clinically appropriate in such cases.
* Anencephaly and other physical and mental deformities have also been blamed on high exposure to such toxins as [[lead]], [[chromium]], [[mercury]], and [[nickel]]. <ref>Goldsmith, Alexander (1996, quoted by Millen and Holtz, "Dying for Growth")</ref>


==Prenatal screening and diagnosis==
==Natural History, Complications, Prognosis==
===Ultrasound===
* [[Prognosis]] of children born with anencephaly is extremely poor as there is no cure or standard [[treatment]] available so far. Most [[anencephalic]] babies do not survive [[birth]], accounting for 55% of non-aborted cases. If the [[infant]] is not [[stillborn]], then he or she will usually die within a few hours or days after [[birth]] from [[cardiorespiratory arrest]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-1-4020-8811-7 |title=Applications of Mass Spectrometry in Life Safety &#124; SpringerLink |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>
Anencephaly can often be diagnosed before birth through an [[ultrasound]] examination. The maternal serum [[alpha-fetoprotein]] (AFP screening)<ref name="pmid17602445">{{cite journal |author=Joó JG, Beke A, Papp C, ''et al'' |title=Neural tube defects in the sample of genetic counselling |journal=Prenat. Diagn. |volume=27 |issue=10 |pages=912–21 |year=2007 |pmid=17602445 |doi=10.1002/pd.1801}}</ref> and detailed fetal ultrasound<ref name="pmid16862467">{{cite journal |author=Cedergren M, Selbing A |title=Detection of fetal structural abnormalities by an 11-14-week ultrasound dating scan in an unselected Swedish population |journal=Acta obstetricia et gynecologica Scandinavica |volume=85 |issue=8 |pages=912–5 |year=2006 |pmid=16862467 |doi=10.1080/00016340500448438}}</ref> can be useful for screening for neural tube defects such as [[spina bifida]] or anencephaly.


* Anencephalic [[infants]] are not aggressively [[resuscitation|resuscitated]] as there is very little chance of the infant to achieve a full level of [[consciousness]]. Instead,  [[clinicians]] prefer to provide them with adequate hydration, [[food|nutrition]] and comfort.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://psychology.wikia.org/wiki/Anencephaly |title=Anencephaly &#124; Psychology Wiki &#124; Fandom |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref> Artificial [[ventilation]], [[surgery]] (to fix any co-existing congenital defects), and medications are not considered an option as they have no role in any improvement.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/anencephaly |title=Anencephaly: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment for Newborns &#124; St. Louis Childrens Hospital |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref> Due to this poor prognosis, couple are discussed about the option of the terminating the [[pregnancy]] soon after the [[prenatal diagnosis]] is established.<ref name="pmidPMID: 22462001">{{cite journal| author=Machado IN, Martinez SD, Barini R| title=Anencephaly: do the pregnancy and maternal characteristics impact the pregnancy outcome? | journal=ISRN Obstet Gynecol | year= 2012 | volume= 2012 | issue=  | pages= 127490 | pmid=PMID: 22462001 | doi=10.5402/2012/127490 | pmc=3302112 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=22462001  }} </ref>
== Diagnosis ==
===Diagnostic Criteria===
===Diagnostic Criteria===
*The [[diagnosis]] of Anencephaly is made either during a [[prenatal scan]] or after the [[birth]].
:*In [[prenatal]] [[ultrasound]], [[features]] like [[absent]] [[calvarium]] and characteristic [[frog-like appearance]] or Micky mouse appearance of the [[fetus]] are [[diagnostic]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://radiopaedia.org/articles/anencephaly |title=Anencephaly &#124; Radiology Reference Article &#124; Radiopaedia.org |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>
:*After the [[birth]], [[clinical features]] like lack of [[bony]] covering over the back of the [[head]] and less number of [[bones]] around the front and sides of the [[head]] are [[diagnostic]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions-and-treatments/conditions/a/anencephaly/symptoms-and-causes |title=Anencephaly &#124; Symptoms & Causes &#124; Boston Children's Hospital |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>
=== Symptoms ===
* Majority of the [[infants]] are [[stillborn]] or die soon after [[birth]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/anencephaly.html#:~:text=Treatments,will%20die%20shortly%20after%20birth. |title=Facts about Anencephaly &#124; CDC |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref><ref name="pmidPMID: 16827827">{{cite journal| author=Jaquier M, Klein A, Boltshauser E| title=Spontaneous pregnancy outcome after prenatal diagnosis of anencephaly. | journal=BJOG | year= 2006 | volume= 113 | issue= 8 | pages= 951-3 | pmid=PMID: 16827827 | doi=10.1111/j.1471-0528.2006.01014.x | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=16827827  }} </ref>
*[[Symptoms]] of anencephaly may include the following:
:*Decrease or loss of [[consciousness]].
:*[[Blindness]]
:*[[Deafness]]
:*Inability to feel [[pain]].<ref name="pmidPMID: 7950143">{{cite journal| author=Murphy PA| title=Nursing the permanently unconscious. | journal=Trends Health Care Law Ethics | year= 1994 | volume= 9 | issue= 1 | pages= 33-6 | pmid=PMID: 7950143 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=7950143  }} </ref> <ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Cephalic-Disorders-Fact-Sheet |title=Cephalic Disorders Fact Sheet &#124; National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>


=== Clinical features===
=== Physical Examination ===
Infants born with anencephaly are usually [[blindness|blind]], [[deafness|deaf]], [[Unconsciousness|unconscious]], and unable to feel [[pain]].
*Physical examination may be remarkable for:
:*Flattened [[head]]
:*Absence of the [[cranial]] [[vault]]<ref>{{cite web |url=https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1181570-overview#a6 |title=Anencephaly: Overview, Pathophysiology, Causes |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>
:*Positive [[grasp reflex]] in both the [[hands]] and [[feet]]
:*[[Moro reflex]] could be present or absent depending on the severity of the defect.<ref name="pmidPMID: 22778756">{{cite journal| author=Futagi Y, Toribe Y, Suzuki Y| title=The grasp reflex and moro reflex in infants: hierarchy of primitive reflex responses. | journal=Int J Pediatr | year= 2012 | volume= 2012 | issue=  | pages= 191562 | pmid=PMID: 22778756 | doi=10.1155/2012/191562 | pmc=3384944 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=22778756  }} </ref>
:*A [[heart]] [[murmur]] could be present due to associated [[congenital heart disease]].
:*[[cleft lip]] and/or [[cleft palate]] could be present.
:*[[Clubbed foot]] could be present.
:*[[Gastroschisis]], [[omphalocele]], [[hypospadias]] could be present in some anencephalic infants.<ref name="pmidPMID: 25386414">{{cite journal| author=Gole RA, Meshram PM, Hattangdi SS| title=Anencephaly and its associated malformations. | journal=J Clin Diagn Res | year= 2014 | volume= 8 | issue= 9 | pages= AC07-9 | pmid=PMID: 25386414 | doi=10.7860/JCDR/2014/10402.4885 | pmc=4225866 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=25386414  }} </ref>


===Physical Examination===
=== Laboratory Findings ===
====Neurologic====
==== Alpha-Fetoprotein ====
[[Reflex]] actions such as breathing and responses to sound or touch may occur.
Although some individuals with anencephaly may be born with a rudimentary [[brainstem]], which controls autonomic and regulatory function, the lack of a functioning cerebrum is usually thought of as ruling out the possibility of ever gaining [[consciousness]], even though it has been disputed specifically. <ref name="pmid17475053">{{cite journal |author=Merker B |title=Consciousness without a cerebral cortex: a challenge for neuroscience and medicine |journal=The Behavioral and brain sciences |volume=30 |issue=1 |pages=63–81; discussion 81–134 |year=2007 |pmid=17475053 |doi=10.1017/S0140525X07000891}}</ref>


===Laboratory Findings===
* [[Alpha-fetoprotein]] ([[AFP]]) levels can be measured in [[maternal]] [[serum]] (MSAFP), [[amniotic fluid]], and [[fetal]] [[plasma]].<ref name="pmidPMID 28613501">{{cite journal| author=| title=StatPearls | journal= | year= 2020 | volume= | issue=  | pages=  | pmid=PMID 28613501 | doi= | pmc= | url= }} </ref>
* Normally, the level rises in early [[pregnancy]], peaks between 10 and 13th week, and then the level declines becoming extremely low near the term.<ref name="pmidPMID 4111729">{{cite journal| author=Gitlin D, Perricelli A, Gitlin GM| title=Synthesis of  -fetoprotein by liver, yolk sac, and gastrointestinal tract of the human conceptus. | journal=Cancer Res | year= 1972 | volume= 32 | issue= 5 | pages= 979-82 | pmid=PMID 4111729 | doi= | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=4111729  }} </ref>
* For the purpose of [[prenatal screening]], [[alpha-fetoprotein]] levels are checked and are found to elevated. This test is non-specific for [[NTD]], as [[AFP]] can also be elevated due to other [[maternal]] and [[fetal]] factors. Therefore, results should always be combined with [[ultrasound]] findings and the levels of [[Acetylcholinesterase]] ([[Acetylcholinesterase|AChE]]).


===Acetylcholinesterase===
[[Acetylcholinesterase|AChE]] is an [[enzyme]] contained in [[blood]] [[cells]], [[muscle]], and [[nerve]] tissue. Its levels can be checked from the [[amniotic fluid]] via [[amniocentesis]]. An elevation of both [[AFP]] and [[Acetylcholinesterase|AChE]] values is highly suggestive and accurate for [[fetal]] [[NTD]].


===Triple screen===
Triple screen is a prenatal [[screening]] test which includes 3 [[biomarkers]]; [[AFP]], [[hCG]] and [[estradiol]]. It helps to detect certain [[congenital anomalies]], including [[neural tube defect]]. The following table shows the triple screening of [[neural tube defect]] and how it is differentiated from other anomalies.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.aafp.org/afp/2002/0301/p922.html#:~:text=A%20triple%20screen%20is%20a,risk%20for%20certain%20birth%20defects. |title=Triple Screening in Pregnancy--What It Is and What to Expect - American Family Physician |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>
<br />
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!style="background: #4479BA; color: #FFFFFF; text-align: center;"|Anomaly
!style="background: #4479BA; color: #FFFFFF; text-align: center;"|AFP
!style="background: #4479BA; color: #FFFFFF; text-align: center;"|hCG
!style="background: #4479BA; color: #FFFFFF; text-align: center;"|Estradiol
|-
|align="center" style="background:#ADD8E6;" |NTD
|Increased
|Normal
|Normal
|-
|align="center" style="background:#ADD8E6;" |Trisomy 21
|Decreased
|Increased
|Decreased
|-
|align="center" style="background:#ADD8E6;" |Trisomy 18
|Decreased
|Decreased
|Decreased
|}


===Imaging Findings===
===Imaging Findings===
====Ultrasound====
[[Ultrasound]] provides a [[definitive]] [[diagnosis]] of anencephaly before [[birth]]. It can often be [[diagnosed]] through a [[transvaginal]] [[ultrasound]] performed at 12th week [[postmenstrual]].<ref name="pmidPMID: 9060123">{{cite journal| author=Johnson SP, Sebire NJ, Snijders RJ, Tunkel S, Nicolaides KH| title=Ultrasound screening for anencephaly at 10-14 weeks of gestation. | journal=Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol | year= 1997 | volume= 9 | issue= 1 | pages= 14-6 | pmid=PMID: 9060123 | doi=10.1046/j.1469-0705.1997.09010014.x | pmc= | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=9060123  }} </ref>


===Other Diagnostic Studies===
The [[ultrasound]] findings include:


==Management==
* Absent [[calvarium]].
So far, prevention is the best management of anencephaly.
* No [[parenchymal]] [[tissue]] above the orbits.
* Reduced [[crown rump length]] ([[CRL]])
* A characteristic [[frog-like appearance]] or [[Micky mouse appearance]] of the fetus due to absent [[brain]] and [[cranial]] bone and, protruding [[orbits]].
* A large amount of [[amniotic fluid]] called [[polyhydromnios]] is also seen.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://radiopaedia.org/articles/anencephaly |title=Anencephaly &#124; Radiology Reference Article &#124; Radiopaedia.org |format= |work= |accessdate=}}</ref>
[[Image:Anencephaly- frog like appearance.gif|300px|right|thumb|Anencephaly - frog like appearance on prenatal USG.
 
 
Source: <nowiki>https://radiopaedia.org</nowiki>]].
 
==Management ==


===Medical Therapy===
===Medical Therapy===
* There is no known medical therapy available for anencephaly.


===Surgery===
===Surgery===
At his point in time there are no surgical options available.
===Prevention===
Recent studies have shown that the addition of [[folic acid]] to the [[diet (nutrition)|diet]] of women of child-bearing age may significantly reduce, although not eliminate, the incidence of neural tube defects. Therefore, it is recommended that all women of child-bearing age consume 0.4&nbsp;mg of folic acid daily, especially those attempting to conceive or who may possibly conceive, as this can reduce the risk to 0.03%.<ref>{{NINDS|anencephaly}}</ref> It is not advisable to wait until pregnancy has begun, since by the time a woman knows she is pregnant, the critical time for the formation of a neural tube defect has usually already passed. A physician may prescribe even higher dosages of folic acid (4&nbsp;mg/day) for women who have had a previous pregnancy with a neural tube defect.
==Pregnancy management==
Anencephaly has a poor pregnancy outcome. Majority of the fetuses are either stillborn or die soon after birth, however, few infants do manage to live up to 28 days. Therefore, mothers are counselled regarding the termination soon after the prenatal diagnosis. Vaginal delivery is the preferred mode unless there are any maternal indications


* At this point in time, there are no surgical options available.{{cite web |url=https://www.stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/anencephaly |title=Anencephaly: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment for Newborns &#124; St. Louis Childrens Hospital |format= |work= |accessdate=}}


===Prevention===
* Recent studies have shown that the addition of [[folic acid]] to the [[diet (nutrition)|diet]] of women of child-bearing age may significantly reduce, although not eliminate, the incidence of [[neural tube defects]]. Therefore, it is recommended that all [[women]] of child-bearing age consume 0.4&nbsp;mg of [[folic acid]] daily, especially those attempting to conceive or who may possibly conceive, as this can reduce the risk to 0.03%.<ref>{{NINDS|anencephaly}}</ref>
* It is not advisable to wait until [[pregnancy]] has begun, since by the time a woman knows she is [[pregnant]], the critical time for the formation of a [[neural tube defect]] has usually already passed. A [[physician may]] prescribe even higher dosages of [[folic acid]] (4&nbsp;mg/day) for women who have had a previous [[pregnancy]] with a [[neural tube defect]].<ref name="pmidPMID: 22439027">{{cite journal| author=Cavalli P| title=Prevention of Neural Tube Defects and proper folate periconceptional supplementation. | journal=J Prenat Med | year= 2008 | volume= 2 | issue= 4 | pages= 40-1 | pmid=PMID: 22439027 | doi= | pmc=3279093 | url=https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/eutils/elink.fcgi?dbfrom=pubmed&tool=sumsearch.org/cite&retmode=ref&cmd=prlinks&id=22439027  }} </ref>


==References==
==References==

Latest revision as of 03:36, 23 June 2020

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Ayesha Javid, MBBS[2]

For patient information click here

Anencephaly
The side view of the head of an anencephalic fetus.
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/
ICD-10 Q00.0
ICD-9 740.0
OMIM 206500
DiseasesDB 705
MeSH C10.500.680.196

Overview

Anencephaly is a cephalic disorder in which there is the partial or total absence of the brain. It is an open neural tube defect occurs when the rostral (head) end of the neural tube fails to close resulting in the absence of a major portion of the brain, skull and spinal cord. Children with this disorder are born without a forebrain, the largest part of the brain consisting mainly of the cerebral hemispheres which is responsible for higher cognitive functions and cerebellum which control balance and movement. However, hindbrain is developed. The remaining brain tissue is often exposed - not covered by bone or skin.

Historical Perspective

Classification

Type of Anencephaly Clinical features
Meroanencephaly[3] Meroanencephaly is a rare form of anencephaly. Fetus born have clinical features including misshapen skull bones and a vascular tissue protuberance called cerebrovasculosa.
Holoanencephaly[3] It is the most common type of anencephaly. In this condition, the entire fetus brain fails to develop except for the brain stem. Usually, infant survives for only one day after birth.
Craniorachischisis[4] It is the most severe type of anencephaly. Along with the cranial defect, fetus also has a defect in the vertebral column exposing the underlying neural tissue. Area cerebrovasculosa and area medullovasculosa fill the areas with cranial and spinal defects.

Pathophysiology

  • The craniofacial abnormalities in anencephaly are caused by abnormal induction by the neural crest cells.[7]

Clinical Features

Differentiating Anencephalopathy from other Disorders

At times, anencephaly could be misdiagnosed with other similar diagnosis such as;

Epidemiology and Demographics

Incidence

In the United States, approximately 1,000 to 2,000 babies are born with anencephaly each year. In 2001, the National Center for Health Statistics reported 9.4 cases among 100,000 live births.[10] Anually, more than 300,000 babies are born with neural tube defects throughout the world.[11]

Demographics

In United States, the highest prevalence has been seen among the Hispanic [12]. Female babies, whites and children born to mothers who are at extreme of ages are more likely to be affected by the disorder. Worldwide, Ireland and British Islands has higher prevalence as compared to Asia and Africa which has a lower prevalence rate.[13]

Recurrence rate

Like any other neural tube defect, the recurrence rate of anencephaly is 2-4 percent if one sibling is affected and 10 percent if two siblings are affected.[14][15] This familial tendency is due to genetics, environmental factors, or both.[16]

Risk Factors

Folate deficiency

Genetics

Neural tube defects do not follow direct patterns of heredity, though there is some indirect evidence of inheritance.[19] Recent animal models indicate a possible association with deficiencies of the transcription factor TEAD2.[20]

The motivation behind studying genetic patterns is the following:

  1. NTDs are consistently prevalent among monozygotic twins as compared to dizygotic twins.[21]
  2. There is a high recurrence rate within families. Statistics show the recurrence risk of 1/20 if one previous pregnancy is affected and 1/10 if two pregnancies are affected in a family.[22]
  3. There is higher female preponderence as compared to the males. [23]

Syndromes

Fever/hyperthermia

Amniotic bands

Pregestational diabetes

Maternal Obesity

Toxins

  • Anencephaly and other physical and mental deformities have also been blamed on high exposure to such toxins as lead, chromium, mercury, and nickel. [31]

Natural History, Complications, Prognosis

  • Anencephalic infants are not aggressively resuscitated as there is very little chance of the infant to achieve a full level of consciousness. Instead, clinicians prefer to provide them with adequate hydration, nutrition and comfort.[33] Artificial ventilation, surgery (to fix any co-existing congenital defects), and medications are not considered an option as they have no role in any improvement.[34] Due to this poor prognosis, couple are discussed about the option of the terminating the pregnancy soon after the prenatal diagnosis is established.[35]

Diagnosis

Diagnostic Criteria

Symptoms

Physical Examination

  • Physical examination may be remarkable for:

Laboratory Findings

Alpha-Fetoprotein

Acetylcholinesterase

AChE is an enzyme contained in blood cells, muscle, and nerve tissue. Its levels can be checked from the amniotic fluid via amniocentesis. An elevation of both AFP and AChE values is highly suggestive and accurate for fetal NTD.

Triple screen

Triple screen is a prenatal screening test which includes 3 biomarkers; AFP, hCG and estradiol. It helps to detect certain congenital anomalies, including neural tube defect. The following table shows the triple screening of neural tube defect and how it is differentiated from other anomalies.[46]

Anomaly AFP hCG Estradiol
NTD Increased Normal Normal
Trisomy 21 Decreased Increased Decreased
Trisomy 18 Decreased Decreased Decreased

Imaging Findings

Ultrasound

Ultrasound provides a definitive diagnosis of anencephaly before birth. It can often be diagnosed through a transvaginal ultrasound performed at 12th week postmenstrual.[47]

The ultrasound findings include:

Anencephaly - frog like appearance on prenatal USG. Source: https://radiopaedia.org

.

Management

Medical Therapy

  • There is no known medical therapy available for anencephaly.

Surgery

  • At this point in time, there are no surgical options available."Anencephaly: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment for Newborns | St. Louis Childrens Hospital".

Prevention

  • Recent studies have shown that the addition of folic acid to the diet of women of child-bearing age may significantly reduce, although not eliminate, the incidence of neural tube defects. Therefore, it is recommended that all women of child-bearing age consume 0.4 mg of folic acid daily, especially those attempting to conceive or who may possibly conceive, as this can reduce the risk to 0.03%.[49]
  • It is not advisable to wait until pregnancy has begun, since by the time a woman knows she is pregnant, the critical time for the formation of a neural tube defect has usually already passed. A physician may prescribe even higher dosages of folic acid (4 mg/day) for women who have had a previous pregnancy with a neural tube defect.[50]

References

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