Pattern and Risk Factors of Neural Tube Defects, Khartoum-Sudan

Background: Neural tubes defects (NTDs) are abnormalities that occur during neurulation, which result in birth defects of the brain spine or spinal cord. They are due to multifactorial etiology, amongst which are genetic and environmental factors. Methods: This is a cross –sectional- case control study, conducted at Khartoum state in a one-year time, and aimed to identify the pattern and risk factors of NTDs. All newborns with any type of neural tube defect admitted to NICU in study area during the study period were selected. Data was collected using a questionnaire covering medical, social history and clinical examination. Results: Out of the 36785 delivered newborns during the study period, 103 had NTD. The types of NTDs include myelomeningocele 47(45.7%), anencephaly 18(17.5%), encephalocele 14(13.6%), myelomeningocele + hydrocephalus 11(10.7%) and meningocele 8(7.8%). Family history of NTDs was found in 11(10.7%) of the affected newborns siblings. Only about one third of the studied mothers received folic acid during pregnancy. Other risk factors include two (1.9%) of the mothers exposed to irradiation and hyperthermia each, and 7(6.8%) exposed to anti-epileptic drugs, Diabetic mothers were 12(11.7%). Positive family history of neural tube defects was found in 11(10.7%) affected newborns. 74.5% of the studied families were of low social class. Conclusion: The commonest types of NDTs among the studied newborns were myelomeningocele followed by anencephaly The most common risk factors of NTDs among the study group include low and irregular folic acid intake during pregnancy, previous family history, maternal diabetes and low social class.