THE ROLE OF ULTRASOUND IN DIAGNOSIS OF NEURAL TUBE DEFECTS DURING 1ST AND 2ND TRIMESTER OF PREGNANCY

Abstract

Background: Neural tube defects (NTDs) are significant congenital issues affecting the central nervous system, resulting from the incomplete closure of the neural tube during early embryonic development.

Prenatal detection via ultrasound is crucial for early diagnosis, parental guidance, and effective pregnancy management.

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the frequency and types of neural tube defects identified through prenatal ultrasound and to examine their relationship with maternal age, gestational age, family history, and past pregnancy history. Data on maternal demographics, obstetric background, and ultrasound results were collected and analyzed.

Methodology:. This 4-month prospective study of 137 participants with  the role of ultrasound  in diagnosis of neural tube involved 1st and 2nd trimester of pregnancy measurement Demographic, clinical, imaging, and laboratory data were collected and anonymized, with statistical analysis using SPSS 27 to assess neural tube defects.

Results: The most prevalent problem among the 137 cases was hydrocephalus (50%), which was followed by anencephaly (45%), ventriculomegaly (2%), spina bifida (2%), and other defects like spine deformities, microcephaly, and macrocephaly (1%).  With gestational ages ranging from 13 to 27 weeks, the majority of affected moms were between the ages of 18 and 35.  Many of the patients had a history of NTDs in their families or during prior pregnancies.

Conclusion: According to the study's findings, neural tube abnormalities continue to be a common congenital anomaly in the population under study, with hydrocephalus and anencephaly being the most common.  One useful method for early detection is prenatal ultrasonography. Higher risk is linked to maternal characteristics such age, family history, and prior pregnancies affected by NTD. To lower the prevalence of NTDs, early screening, health education, and folic acid supplementation are crucial preventative interventions.