Abstract
Neural tube defects are a common occurrence in many pregnancies. Some of them have fairly minimal consequences and in fact, many children born with these defects lead normal lives. Spina bifida is one of these defects and is indeed one of the most common. The defect emanates from the failure of the neural tube to close properly leaving an opening. This paper aims to look at this defect from several perspectives including a brief description of the disorder, clinical presentation, pathophysiology, the usual age of onset and relevant ethnic and cultural risk information. The paper will also look at the genetic ...