Spina bifida as a multifactorial birth defect: Risk factors and genetic underpinnings

Abstract excerpt

Spina bifida is a birth defect resulting from abnormal embryonic development of the neural tube. Though spina bifida is divided into several subtypes, myelomeningocele-the most severe form of spina bifida often associated with a markedly diminished quality of life-accounts for a significant portion of cases. A broad range of genetic and environmental factors, many of which are still unknown, influence spina...

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