Anencephaly, encephalocele, and congenital hydrocephalus
THE CONTEXT
The passage describes defining features of congenital neurological abnormalities and the mechanism and causes of congenital hydrocephalus.
Defining abnormalities
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Anencephaly results from a defect in neural axis development and is incompatible with life.
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Encephalocele involves herniation of the brain and its coverings through a skull defect.
Congenital hydrocephalus
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Congenital hydrocephalus results from impaired cerebrospinal fluid circulation or absorption in the basal cisterns.
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It usually follows intrauterine infections such as toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, and syphilis.
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Other listed causes include congenital aqueduct malformation and Dandy-Walker syndrome. The supplied description of Dandy-Walker syndrome is incomplete.