Neural tube defects: current view on etiology, prenatal prevention, and early diagnosis. A review

A literature review on the etiology, prevention, and early diagnosis of neural tube defects is presented, focusing on the causes and risk factors for these disorders. Various pathogenetic mechanisms for neural tube defects and the role of folic acid in their prevention are described. The main stages of ultrasound evaluation of the central nervous system structures in the first trimester of pregnancy are addressed. A basic ultrasound imaging technique that allows to identify spina bifida is provided. This review aims to present current data on the etiology, prevention, and early diagnosis of neural tube defects. A search was conducted in domestic and foreign literature databases (eLIBRARY, Medline/PubMed, Embase, Crossref, RSCI) using the keywords "neural tube defect," "spina bifida," "prenatal diagnosis," "folic acid," "meningomyelocele," "myeloschisis." Twenty-five papers met the selection criteria and were included in the review. Healthcare providers' awareness of the methods of prenatal prophylaxis and the possibilities of early perinatal ultrasound diagnosis of neural tube defects will reduce their incidence and infant morbidity rates and increase the effectiveness of medical care.