Craniocerebral and Spinal Dysraphism with Omphalocele – A Case Report of Primary Neurulation Defect

Background: Anencephaly and Spina bifida are the two most common types of neural tube defects (NTDs). Disrupted formation and closure of neural folds leads to Craniocerebral and spinal dysraphisms. Materials and methods: An 18 week old foetus was received in the department of Anatomy after elective medical termination of pregnancy due to the diagnosis of neural tube defect and associated congenital anomalies. Case Report: The foetus had anencephaly, thoracic-lumbar spina bifida, omphlocele and clubbed foot and hands. The foetus was dissected and studied, to look for abnormal internal structures. On meticulous dissection it was found that there were abnormalities in spine, gastrointestinal system and cranium. Conclusion: Anencephaly is a neural tube defect which has multiple neural and non-neural associated anomalies. A detailed description of the combination of associated anomalies goes a long way in updating knowledge on the same. KEY WORDS: Anencephaly, spina bifida, omphalocele, folic acid, neural tube defects.