Anencephaly: Prenatal Ultrasonographic Features and Preventive Strategies – A Case Report

Dr. Shradha Bangad; Dr. Sushil  Kachewar; Dr. Saad  Shaikh; Dr. Pragati  Jain

doi:10.46858/vimshsj.110306

Authors

Dr. Shradha Bangad DVVPFs Medical College and Hospital, Ahilyanagar-414111, Maharashtra
Dr. Sushil Kachewar
Dr. Saad Shaikh
Dr. Pragati Jain

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46858/vimshsj.110306

Keywords:

Anencephaly, Neural Tube Defects, Ultrasound, Folic Acid, Prenatal Diagnosis, Polyhydramnios

Abstract

Anencephaly is a severe congenital anomaly characterized by the absence of a major portion of the brain, skull, and scalp. We report a case of 27-year-old woman, diagnosed at 17 weeks and 6 days gestation during her first obstetric ultrasound. The scan revealed characteristic findings of anencephaly, including absent cranial bones, brain tissue, and polyhydramnios. No family history of birth defects or miscarriages was reported. Preventive measures such as preconception folic acid supplementation are crucial, reducing NTD risk by up to 70%. The fetus was aborted, and post-abortion imaging confirmed the diagnosis.

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