Neural Tube Defects due to Depakote

Neural tube malformation involves the incomplete development of the brain and spinal cord of a fetus and the protective coatings surrounding these essential organs. It may lead to neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. It is also closely associated with brain disorders such as hydrocephalus, Chiari malformation type II, anencephaly, and others.

A child born with a neural tube malformation may have to stay in the neonatal intensive care unit after birth. Unfortunately, these conditions often come with a lifetime of medical treatment. Some of these conditions, such as anencephaly, can even be fatal.

Most Common Neural Tube Defect - Spina Bifida

Spina bifida, the most common neural tube malformation, results from the failure of the spine to close properly during the first month of pregnancy. In severe cases, the spinal cord protrudes through the back and may be covered by skin or a thin membrane. Surgery to close a newborn's back is often performed shortly after birth to minimize the risk of infection and to preserve existing function in the spinal cord.

During normal fetal development, the neural tube folds inward and closes completely by approximately the 28th day after conception. When it fails to close completely, it may cause defects of the vertebrae, or the bones that make up the spine. This may lead to irreversible damage of the nerves and spinal cord.