Neural tube

The neural tube is the embryonal structure that gives rise to the brain and spinal cord.

Normally the closure of the neural tube occurs around the thirtieth day after fertilization. However, if something interferes and the tube fails to close properly, a neural tube defect will occur. Among the most common tube defects are anencephaly, encephalocele, and spina bifida.

Pregnant women taking medication for epilepsy have a higher chance of having a child with a neural tube defect. Also, some research has shown that women with folic acid deficiences also have a higher chance of having a child with a neural tube defect.