Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
neural tube defect
Congenital malformation resulting from incomplete closure of the neural tube during early embryonic development.
Full Definition
Neural tube defects are congenital malformations that occur when the neural tube fails to close properly during the third and fourth weeks of embryonic development. Common types include spina bifida, anencephaly, and encephalocele. In pediatric neurology documentation, these conditions often require multidisciplinary management and may be associated with hydrocephalus, motor impairments, and cognitive difficulties. Proper documentation includes specification of the type, level, and associated complications of the neural tube defect.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as NTD in subsequent references within the same document.
In Context
- "Prenatal ultrasound detected a neural tube defect at the lumbar level." — Prenatal consultation note
- "The patient's myelomeningocele represents a neural tube defect requiring surgical closure." — Neurosurgical evaluation
Also known as
NTD
Don't confuse with
spinal dysraphism