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Anencephaly


About this topic


Anencephaly is a type of neural tube defect or NTD. It is when a baby is born missing part or all of their brain. The baby may also be missing parts of their skull or scalp. ‚  

What can make this more likely to happen?


Women who do not eat enough folic acid during pregnancy are more likely to have a baby with anencephaly. Folic acid is a vitamin that is in foods we eat. You are more likely to have a baby born with this condition if you have a family history of other NTDs. Women who are overweight or have diabetes are also more likely to have a baby with anencephaly. So are women who take certain drugs to control their seizures. ‚  

What are the main signs?


Babies who are born with this condition may be missing most or all of their brain. The small amount of brain tissue may be exposed and not covered by bone or skin. A baby with anencephaly is not able to see or hear. They are not able to think or feel and will never be able to do these things. ‚  

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


An ultrasound or blood test before the baby is born is helpful in finding this condition. The doctor may diagnose this condition when your baby is born. ‚  

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


There is no cure for this condition. Babies with anencephaly will most often be stillborn or will die shortly after they are born. ‚  

What can be done to prevent this health problem?


It is important for women who may become pregnant to get enough folic acid. Your doctor may want you to take a multivitamin or a folic acid pill. You can also get folic acid from the foods you eat. It is found in: ‚  
  • Dark green leafy vegetables
  • Dried beans
  • Citrus fruits
  • Foods that have folic acid added to them like cereals or breads

Where can I learn more?


Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ‚  
http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/birthdefects/Anencephaly.html ‚  
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke ‚  
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/anencephaly/anencephaly.htm ‚  
National Organization of Rare Diseases ‚  
http://www.rarediseases.org/rare-disease-information/rare-diseases/byID/596/viewFullReport ‚  
Washington State Department of Health ‚  
http://www.doh.wa.gov/YouandYourFamily/IllnessandDisease/BirthDefects/AnencephalyInvestigation ‚  

Last Reviewed Date


2015-01-29 ‚  

List_set bdysylist


  • Central Nervous System
  • Neonatal
  • Pediatric

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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Copyright ‚ © 2016 Wolters Kluwer Clinical Drug Information, Inc. and its affiliates and/or licensors. All rights reserved. ‚  
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