Development Of The CNS

1. Notochord induces overlying ectoderm to differentiate into neuroectoderm to form neural plate; notochord becomes nucleus pulposus

2. Neural plate folds to form neural tube

-some cells diff. into neural crest cells

-craniocaudal folding

3. Vesicles

1. Spina bifida (high AFP levels)

2. Anencephaly (high AFP levels)

-1/1000 births

-most common serious birth defect in stillborns

3. Arnold-Chiari – herniation of cerebellum into foramen magnum

4. Dandy-Walker – hydrocephalus from atresia of foramena of Luschka and Magendie

5. Hydrocephalus – most commonly from stenosis of cerebral aqueduct

6. Fetal alcohol syndrome – most common cause of MR; microcephaly, heart disease

7. Craniopharyngioma – congenital cystic tumor, remnants of Rathke’s pouch

Category: Anatomy Notes