Anencephaly

Anencephaly

Anencephaly is a neural tube defect characterized by the failure of the brain, skull, and scalp to develop normally. The cerebrum fails to develop or is greatly reduced in size. The cerebrum is the large part of the brain that is responsible for thinking and coordination. Often, the brain tissue that is present is exposed due to the failure of the skull and scalp to develop.

A newborn with anencephaly may have some reflexes. They are usually blind, deaf, and unable to sense pain. They do not gain consciousness. The babies affected by anencephaly usually die before or shortly after birth.

Anencephaly occurs in 1 out of every 1000 pregnancies. This makes it one of the most common birth defects. Women who take anticonvulsant medication or who have uncontrolled diabetes are at risk for having their pregnancy affected by anencephaly. Women who have malabsorption problems or a history of neural tube defects are also at an increased risk.

Folic acid deficiency is considered a cause of anencephaly. A folic acid deficiency can be caused by poor nutrition. Folic acid is found in orange juice. Women who are trying to get pregnant are often recommended to drink orange juice everyday.