A cadaveric foetal study of craniorachicchisis totalis

Latha M; Vino Victor Jesudas; Froebel Giftly T.C

Authors

Latha M Assistant Professor of Anatomy, Institute of Anatomy, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamilnadu, India-625020
Vino Victor Jesudas Director and Professor of Anatomy, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamilnadu, India-625020
Froebel Giftly T.C Tutor in Anatomy, Institute of Anatomy, Madurai Medical College, Madurai, Tamilnadu, India-625020

Keywords:

Craniorachischisis, Ancencephaly, Spina Bifida, Neural tube defect (NTD)

Abstract

Aim of the study is to study in detail about Neural tube defects and the importance of folic acid during antenatal period. Neurulation is the process whereby the neural plate forms the neural tube. Cranial end is called anterior neuropore and caudal end is called Posterior neuropore. We received a male dead fetus from Institute of obstetrics and Gynaecology, Govt Rajaji Hospital Madurai. External examination of fetus showing Craniorachischisis was observed. Detailed study of fetus was performed. Craniorachischisis is a rare and most severe form of Neural tube defect in which both Brain and spinal cord remain open. Both Anencephaly and Spina bifida are present. Craniorachischisis can be diagnosed prenatally by ultrasound and by determination of Alpha fetoprotein (AFP) levels in maternal serum and amniotic fluid. It is estimated that 50-70% of Neural tube defects can be prevented if women take 400ug of Folic acid daily at least 1 month prior to conception and continuing throughout early pregnancy.