Initial diagnosis is typically by ultrasonography to reveal any congenital abnormalities. Fetuses affected typically show cranial abnormalities and deformities in brain tissue as well as spinal abnormalities. Following ultrasonography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly used to confirm the diagnosis. The presence of<unk>  is indicated in imaging by the absence of an arch-cranial line. Other neural tube defect diagnostic tools such as assays of α-fetoprotein or acetylcholinesterase may also be helpful in determining any other conditions that can lead to development of<unk> . Classification<unk>  occurs most commonly in utero during the development of the child.<unk>  is a neural tube defect characterised by a complete or severe defect in the spine. The defect can be located anywhere from the cervical region to the sacrum, or through the entire length of the spine. Typical defects are clefts or splits that open the spine to the exterior environment.<unk>  occurs around 3–4 weeks after conception when the posterior neuropore of the neural tube does not close completely. It is a multifactorial aetiology and is most typically accompanied by other defects.<unk>  is often described as a severe form of spina bifida, with the spine not only being exposed to the exterior environment, but with the opening being large enough to allow the neural plate to spread out of the opening and to the surface.
Rachischisis
Gastroschisis
Diaschisis
Omphalocele
Cranioschisis
Pseudoachondroplasia
Cloacal exstrophy
Encephalocele