Understanding Anencephaly: Causes, Symptoms, and Prognosis

Anencephalic refers to a condition where a developing fetus or infant lacks a major portion of the brain, specifically the cerebrum, which is the largest part of the brain responsible for thinking, movement, and sensation. This condition is usually diagnosed during pregnancy or shortly after birth, and it is often fatal within a short period of time after birth.
Anencephaly is a rare congenital disorder that occurs in approximately 1 in every 10,000 births. It is caused by a genetic mutation or a failure of the neural tube to properly close during fetal development. The exact cause of anencephaly is not always known, but it can be associated with other genetic syndromes or chromosomal abnormalities.
The symptoms of anencephaly vary depending on the severity of the condition, but they typically include:
* Absence of a major portion of the brain
* No cerebral hemispheres (the two largest parts of the brain)
* Underdeveloped cerebellum (the part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance)
* Absent or deformed skull bones
* Facial defects such as small eyes, no nose, or a misshapen jaw
* Hydrocephalus (fluid accumulation in the brain)
* Seizures
* Poor muscle tone and reflexes
* No response to stimuli

There is no treatment for anencephaly, and the prognosis is usually poor. Most babies with this condition do not survive beyond a few days or weeks after birth. In some cases, the parents may choose to terminate the pregnancy if the condition is diagnosed during pregnancy. However, some families may choose to carry the pregnancy to term and provide comfort care to their child after birth.

It is important to note that anencephaly is a rare and severe condition, and it is not the result of any actions or decisions made by the parents. It is a random genetic mutation that can occur in any pregnancy, regardless of the parents' background or lifestyle.