Abstract
BackgroundNeural tube defects (NTDs) are anomalies of the central nervous system caused by the defective closure of the neural tube during early embryogenesis. A significant decline in the incidence of NTDs after folic acid fortification of food in South Africa was previously shown. Recently, clinical geneticists have voiced concerns that there is a possible resurgence in the number of NTDs.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine the incidence of NTDs at a South African Hospital from 2012 to 2016.MethodsThis is a retrospective cross-sectional study where all babies with NTDs born in, or referred to Universitas Hospital were included as study participants. Information was collected for both the mother and the baby from hospital records and data forms.ResultsSeventy-seven cases of NTDs were captured from 2012 to 2016. The incidence of NTDs was 0.34/1000 births in the Free State province, and 1.21/1000 births if only the data for babies born in Universitas Hospital and Pelonomi Hospital were used. Further analysis showed a male: female ratio of 1:1. Open spina bifida was the most common defect at 71.4%.ConclusionThe incidence of NTDs in the Free State province was low compared to other South African and international studies. The incidence for the metropolitan hospitals is comparable to that of previous studies. This discrepancy is a marker of poor data recording and will impact healthcare planning. A statistically significant increase in NTDs could not be proven.
Highlights
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe anomalies of the central nervous system caused by the defective closure of the neural tube during early embryogenesis.[1]
There is a clinical impression that the incidence of NTDs is increasing
The discrepancy between the incidence of NTDs in the Free State province (FS) and the metropolitan hospitals serves as a marker of the poor data recording
Summary
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are severe anomalies of the central nervous system caused by the defective closure of the neural tube during early embryogenesis.[1] An estimated minimum of 300 000 neonates are affected worldwide each year.[2] According to UNICEF and the South African Burden of Disease study in 2000,3 numerous different congenital defects are ranked in the first 20 specific-causes of under-five childhood mortality in South Africa (SA). Neural tube defects are classified as open or closed (membrane-covered) lesions. Its morbidity depends on the extent and level of the lesion and the degree of neurological impairment below that level.[5] Spina bifida can be divided into three common types. There might be a clue to the defect in the form of a tuft of hair or a dimple in the overlying skin This is the mildest form and usually does not cause any disability. Clinical geneticists have voiced concerns that there is a possible resurgence in the number of NTDs
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
