Exencephaly/Encephalocele

Exencephaly and encephalocele are conditions in which the skull forms improperly. This can cause all or part of the brain to form outside the skull. In minor cases, encephalocele will not be obvious before or at birth. In severe cases the child dies in utero or shortly after birth. Exencephaly or severe encephalocele produces a very unsightly appearance that many people find shocking. Surgery improves both appearance and prognosis for encephalocele. Exencephaly and encephalocele are associated with brain damage and mental retardation.

There is very little information on the Net about surviving children with these conditions.

Encephalocele
Medical information and pictures of two severe cases resulting in death.

Welcome Parents
Marissa's parents introduce their daughter, who has encephalocele.

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Prenatal Diagnoses

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