Anencephaly is a congenital malformation in which a significant part of the brain and skull of the fetus do not develop properly. This condition is considered one of the most serious birth defects and unfortunately, babies born with anencephaly rarely survive beyond birth. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and possible prevention measures of anencephaly.
Causes of anencephaly
Anencephaly is the result of a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors during fetal development. Below are some of the possible causes of this devastating condition:
Genetic factors
It has been shown that certain genetic mutations can increase the risk of anencephaly in a fetus. For example, an association has been identified between anencephaly and changes in the genes responsible for the development of the central nervous system. These genes play a crucial role in the proper formation of the brain and spinal cord during the early stages of pregnancy.
Environmental factors
In addition to genetic factors, various environmental factors have been associated with an increased risk of anencephaly. Exposure to certain chemicals, such as valproic acid, during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of neural tube malformations, including anencephaly. Alcohol consumption and a lack of folic acid during pregnancy can also increase the likelihood of this condition in the fetus.
Symptoms of anencephaly
Since anencephaly It affects the development of the brain and skull, babies affected by this condition present a series of characteristic symptoms. Below are some of the most common signs and symptoms of anencephaly:
Cross skulls
One of the most visible symptoms of anencephaly is the presence of open skulls in the fetus, resulting in exposure of brain tissue not covered by the skull. This abnormality in the development of the skull is one of the hallmarks of anencephaly and is usually detectable by ultrasound during pregnancy.
Defects in the brain
Due to lack of development adequate brain function, babies with anencephaly may have an underdeveloped or absent brain in certain areas. This can lead to serious problems in the functioning of the central nervous system and, ultimately, the inability to survive outside the womb.
Prevention of anencephaly
Although Anencephaly is a complex and multifactorial condition, there are measures that can help reduce the risk of a fetus developing this malformation. Below are some recommended prevention strategies:
Folic acid supplementation
Folic acid is a B vitamin essential for healthy development of the fetus, especially in the early stages of pregnancy. pregnancy. It has been shown that folic acid supplementation before conception and during the first weeks of gestation can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects, such as anencephaly.
Avoid harmful substances
To reduce the risk of anencephaly and other congenital malformations, it is essential to avoid exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy. This includes abstaining from alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs, as well as avoiding exposure to toxic chemicals at home or in the workplace.
Genetic counseling
In cases where For those with a family history of anencephaly or other congenital malformations, it is recommended to seek genetic counseling before conceiving. A genetic counselor can assess an individual's risk of having a child with anencephaly and provide information about possible strategies to reduce that risk.
In summary, anencephaly is a devastating birth defect that affects brain and child development. skull in the fetus. Understanding the possible causes, symptoms and prevention measures of this condition is essential to help reduce its incidence and improve the prognosis of affected babies. By adopting preventative strategies, such as folic acid supplementation and avoidance of harmful substances, you can work towards a future in which anencephaly is an increasingly rare condition.