Valproic acid prenatal exposure. Association with lipomyelomeningocele.
Valproic acid is an anticonvulsant that has been associated with open neural tube defects. We report a family in which the maternal use of valproic acid, and other anticonvulsants, during pregnancy resulted in different malformations in two siblings, one of which had a lipomyelomeningocele. The association of valproic acid and closed neural tube defects has not previously been reported. A brief review of the teratogenic effects of valproic acid is included as well as the implications for early surgical management of lipomyelomeningocele.
Carter
B S
BS
Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver.
Stewart
J M
JM
D000014:Abnormalities, Drug-Induced; D000015:Abnormalities, Multiple / Q000139:chemically induced*; D000328:Adult; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects; D002972:Cleft Palate / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008591:Meningomyelocele / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000601:surgery; D010672:Phenytoin / Q000009:adverse effects; D011247:Pregnancy; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000009:adverse effects*
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D014635:Valproic Acid; D010672:Phenytoin