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Because anencephaly is caused by abnormalities of the neural tube, it is classified as a neural tube defect. Because the neural tube fails to close properly, the developing brain and spinal cord are exposed to the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus in the womb.
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are among the most common birth defects contributing to infant mortality and serious disability. NTDs, which include anencephaly, spina bifida, and encephalocele, occur in approximately 1 of 1000 births in the United States. An estimated 4000 pregnancies are affected with NTDs each year.