» Encephalocele
This is a sac which is formed when the bones of the skull fail to develop. It may contain only cerebro-spinal fluid or part of the brain may also be present in the sac, resulting in brain damage.
» Anencephaly
This is where the brain does not develop properly or is absent, and the baby is either still born or dies shortly after birth. Contact SSBA for further information.
» Hydrocephalus
Most babies born with myelomeningocele also have hydrocephalus (from the Greek hydro, meaning water, and cephalie meaning brain). This is an accumulation of cerebro-spinal fluid which arises from an imbalance in the production and drainage of that fluid. Further information about hydrocephalus is given in SSBA Information Sheet "What is Hydrocephalus"?
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