Glossary
| Term | Description |
|---|---|
| Encephalocele | A neural tube defect that occurs when there is an opening in the bones of the skull through which brain tissue protrudes. |
| Neural tube | The organ which becomes the baby's brain and spinal cord. Completely formed by 5 weeks after conception. If the neural tube does not develop properly, birth defects such as spina bifida, anencephaly, and encephalocele can occur. |
| Neural tube defect | Birth defects which involve incomplete development of the brain, spinal cord and/or the protective coverings for these organs. Types of NTDs include spina bifida, anencephaly, and encephalocele. |