Anencephaly is a disease that causes malformations in the heads of babies during pregnancy. There are detected alterations of the neural tube, a structure present in the embryo and from which the central nervous system (CNS) originates, which during the first weeks of pregnancy cause malformations of varying levels of severity. The level of severity ranges from causing the death of the fetus to causing some mild type of paralysis.
Specifically, anencephaly causes the brain to not fully form, which means that an area of the brain and some bones are missing. The brain is exposed and prevents babies with this disorder from surviving. Anencephaly is also called aprosencephaly with open skull.
Most babies who suffer from this disorder die within hours or days of birth and a minority survive just over three years.
Causes of anencephaly
Neural tube defect
Anencephaly is a consequence of anomalies in the development of the neural tube, an organ that forms in the fourth week of fetal development. The neural tube is the element that gives rise to the central nervous system, with the brain and spinal cord. This tube does not close properly in the case of this disease and allows the amniotic fluid that protects the fetus to come into contact with the nervous system. This causes damage to the neural tissue and prevents the development of the brain and cerebellum from evolving correctly.
This disease appears as a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but it is unknown exactly why and how it is transmitted hereditarily in some cases. Doctors point out some risks that increase the possibility of anencephaly. These are having a low level of vitamin B9 in the mother or her suffering from obesity and/or diabetes mellitus.
Symptoms of anencephaly
Absence of part of the brain
This disease causes affected babies to not have the entire brain, which does not allow them to perform many normal functions such as being and hearing or even feeling pain. In fact, they never become aware of their life and what surrounds them. Another symptom is the physical alteration of the face.
Diagnosis of anencephaly
Analysis variety
To diagnose anencephaly, the doctor uses several techniques. During pregnancy, ultrasound can show excess amniotic fluid) and amniocentesis can show high levels of alpha-fetoprotein; a protein that is produced in the liver of the fetus during its development. Both cases help to visualize the existence of the disease.
Treatment and medication of anencephaly
Incurable
Anencephaly is incurable. When the baby is born, it is fed, but usually dies and never gains consciousness.
Prevention of anencephaly
Take vitamin B9
Science has shown that consuming folic acid (vitamin B9) before pregnancy helps reduce the likelihood of having anencephaly. This vitamin is found in foods such as green leafy vegetables.
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