INCIDENCE OF OPEN NEURAL TUBE DEFECT (ONTD)

Incidence of Open Neural Tube Defect in Asir Province, Southern region of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objective: To determine the incidence of open neural tube defect (ONTD) in Asir Province, Southern region of KSA and
compare with eastern region and central region of the country and determine if the incidence is stable or changing over the years. Design:
Prospective study. Period: January 2009 to December 2011 and retrospective study of the period March 2003 to January 2007. Material
and methods: We compared the number of newborns with ONTD for different periods. Results: Out of 18 patients in the prospective
group 12 were female and 6 male. The incidence is 1.34 per 1000 live births. Hospital Data from year 2003 to 2007 shows 32 total
admissions for ONTD in 4 years. Conclusions: Comparison with eastern region and central regions gives a slightly high incidence
comparing 1.34/1000 live births to 1.09/1000 in central region and 0.97/1000 live births in eastern region. There is a decline in the
number of ONTD cases in Asir Province, Southern region of Saudi Arabia.