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Neural Tube Defects: Screening and Prevention
Neural tube defects (NTDs) include several related developmental malformations. In these disorders, neural tube closure is incomplete in the first few weeks of pregnancy, leading to defects in the spinal cord or brain. Screening for NTDs is available in the form of maternal serum and amniotic fluid measurements of alpha fetoprotein (AFP). Additionally, research in the 1990's suggested that maternal folic acid dietary supplementation could reduce the number of NTD-affected pregnancies. Currently, the American flour supply is fortified with folic acid and women of childbearing age are routinely advised to use folic acid supplements. However, the results of widespread folic acid fortification and supplementation have been somewhat less effective than predicted at preventing NTDs, according to some studies. More work remains to be done to define the best dose of folic acid as well as the role of additional vitamins, especially vitamin B12, in preventing NTDs.This presentation will discuss the most common types of NTDs, describe current prenatal screening strategies for NTDs, and explain the impact of folic acid supplementation on neural tube defect incidence.
Originally presented April 20, 2009 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Lecture Presenter
Karen Moser, MD
Assistant Medical Director, Transfusion Services ARUP Laboratories
Dr. Moser earned her M.D. from Saint Louis University School of Medicine. She is currently in her third year of Anatomic and Clinical Pathology residency at the University of Utah. Her main areas of research interest include transfusion medicine and hematopathology.
Objectives
After this presentation, attendees will be able to:
- Define the most common types of neural tube defects
- Describe current prenatal screening for neural tube defects
- Explain the impact of folic acid supplementation on neural tube defect incidence
Sponsored by:
University of Utah School of Medicine and ARUP Laboratories