Did you know that neural tube defects are among the most
common form of human birth defects? These defects result in the abnormal
development of the brain, spine, or spinal cord. Often, this occurs within the
first month of pregnancy, and the reasons behind these disorders are unclear. There
are about 8 babies born in the U.S. each day that are affected and 300,000
cases identified each year. Among neural tube defects, spina bifida is one of
the most common. Spina bifida occurs when the neural tube does not close properly
during fetal development (image 1). This can then leave a bulge in the skin in
the area that is affected, or in severe cases, the skin could be open with the
nerves exposed.
