Deficiency of which of the following micronutrient leads to the development of neural tube defects?

Option 1 : Folic acid

Concept:-

• Neural tube defects are congenital defects of the brain and spinal cord.
• The two types of NTDs:
  • Spina bifida
  • Anencephaly
• Spina bifida is the open spinal cord or neural tube.
• There are the following types of spinal Bifida:
  • Myelomeningocele refers to the sac coming from the opening in the neural tube. The sac is filled with parts of the spinal cord and nerves. It can lead to moderate to severe disabilities.
  • Meningocele refers to the sac coming out of the opening without the spinal cord or nerves.
  • Spina Bifida Occulta has a small gap or separation in the spinal column.
• Anencephaly refers to reduced or absent cerebellum and cerebrum.
• Folic acid deficiency is a causal factor of NTDs.

Explanation:

• Causes of folic acid deficiency:
  • Inadequate intake
  • Increased demand
  • Diminished absorption
  • Diminished storage
  • Iron deficiency anemia
• Investigations to detect NTD:
  • Alpha-protein test (APT)
  • Triple screen” blood test
  • Amniotic fluid tests with high levels of acetylcholinesterase.
• The folic acid supplement is 4 mg a day starting 4 weeks prior to conception up to 12 weeks of pregnancy.
• All women of reproductive age should be given 400 µg of folic acid daily.
• Iron therapy is to be increased to the extent of 100–200 mg per day.