16-year-old hydrocephalic female patient with occipital<unk> , 1917 Since its earliest cited case in the 16th century, many generations of scientists have attempted to explain the cause. Little has been revealed in the centuries to follow. Although the exact cause is unknown,<unk> s are caused by failure of the neural tube to close completely during fetal development. Both environmental and genetic factors have been seen to contribute to the cause of<unk> s. Some studies have revealed a higher occurrence in female embryos, suggesting a genetic cause. Research has indicated that teratogens (substances known to cause birth defects), trypan blue (a stain used to color dead tissues or cells blue), and arsenic may damage the developing fetus and cause<unk> s. Proper levels of folic acid have been shown to help prevent such defects when taken before pregnancy, and early in pregnancy. Occipital<unk> s are frequently accompanied by hydrocephalus, as seen in 60-90% of patients.
Encephalocele
Sialocele
Omphalocele
Subdural hygroma
Chorionic hematoma
Lateral meningocele syndrome
Cystic hygroma
Lipomeningomyelocele