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Open Neural Tube Defects (ONTDs) in Children What are open neural tube defects in children? Open neural tube defects (ONTDs) are problems with the way the brain, spinal cord, or spine forms while a baby is growing in the pregnant person’s uterus. These problems occur in about 1

Spina Bifida in Children What is spina bifida in children? Spina bifida is a condition present at birth (birth defect) when there are problems with the spine, spinal cord, and the surrounding nerves. It can cause part of the spinal cord and areas around it to form outside of the

Astrocytoma in Children What is an astrocytoma in children? An astrocytoma is a type of brain tumor. A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue in the brain. The brain is part of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS also includes the spinal cord. The main parts of the

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip in Children What is developmental dysplasia of the hip in children? Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a health problem of the hip joint. It’s when the joint hasn’t formed normally, so it doesn’t work as it should. DDH is present at

Immunoglobulin A Deficiency What is IgA deficiency? Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is an antibody blood protein that's part of your immune system. Your body makes IgA and other types of antibodies to help fight off sickness. Having an IgA deficiency means that you have low levels of or

Inguinal and Umbilical Hernias in Children What are hernias in children? A hernia occurs when a part of the intestine or other tissue pushes through an opening in the belly (abdominal) muscles. The hernia creates a soft lump or bulge under the skin. In children, a hernia often

Trisomy 13 and Trisomy 18 in Children What are trisomy 13 and trisomy 18 in children? Trisomy 13 and trisomy 18 are genetic problems. They involve a combination of different birth defects. These include severe learning problems and health problems that affect nearly every organ

Hepatoblastoma in Children What is hepatoblastoma in children? Hepatoblastoma is a very rare cancer that starts in the liver. It usually affects children younger than 3 years of age. About half of all children with it are diagnosed before age 1. It usually doesn't spread

Anemia in Children What is anemia in children? Anemia is a common problem in children. About 20% of children in the U.S. will be diagnosed with anemia at some point. A child who has anemia doesn't have enough red blood cells or hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a type of protein that

Biliary Atresia in Children What is biliary atresia in children? Biliary atresia is a rare liver disease that occurs in newborn babies. It's often found shortly after birth. The disorder affects tubes in the liver called bile ducts. If not treated with surgery, it can be fatal