Spina bifida is the most common neural tube defect. Spina bifida is a birth defect that occurs when the tissue surrounding the developing spinal cord of a fetus does not form properly. This defect can occur anywhere along the spine but is most often found in the lower spine. The severity of spina bifida ranges greatly.

Anencephaly is the second most frequent type of neural tube defect. In anencephaly, the childs brain and spinal cord fail to fully develop.

Encephalocele is the least common neural tube defect caused by the incomplete development of the skull that allows part of the brain to protrude through the skull.

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