Prevalence, associated factors, and outcome of neural tube defects: A retrospective study

The aim was to assess the prevalence, associated factors, and outcome of neural tube defects (NTDs). A retrospective study design was applied at neonatal intensive care unit. Study subjects: A convenience sample of all (90) neonates who were admitted to the study setting during 12 months period and diagnosed as having NTDs were chosen retrospectively. Tool: One structured interview questionnaire was implemented. It included three sections: Personal and clinical data of neonates, characteristics and clinical data of neonates' mother, and associated factors of NTDs. Study results: It was indicated that 62.2% of neonates were males, 56.7% of NTDs were preterm neonates, 58.9% of neonates were delivered emergency cesarean section (CS). Concerning the discharge outcome from NICU; 46.7% of NTDs' neonates have died. The present study revealed that 55.6% of neonates having NTDs their mothers aged from 20-29 years and 44.4% had parents' consanguinity. Moreover, it was found that NTDs were more prevalent (40% and 37.8%) with mothers who were multigravida <4 and >4 and 76.7% were multipara <4. 28% of congenital anomalies (CAs) neonates were having NTDs; 53.3% of NTDs were spina bifida followed by 40% were hydrocephalus and 4.4% were encephalocele. The study results found that recurrent abortions 30% and diabetes mellitus (DM) 4.4% among mothers of the studied neonates before current pregnancy. In addition; 15.6% were taking drugs, 7.8% had an infection, only 6.7% were taking folic acid, and 4.4% had gestational diabetes during current pregnancy.