Introduction: Neural tube defects (NTDs) can be considered as a folate deficiency disorder. The prevalence of NTDs ranges from about 0.5 to 6 in 1,000 births.
Discussion: Two steps can be distinguished in biochemical screening for NTDs: 1. Screening in the general population, which is based on two complementary methods, maternal serum AFP screening and ultrasound screening; 2. Screening in a high-risk group, which requires fetal scanning by an expert sonographer.
Conclusion: Amniocentesis for acetylcholinesterase electrophoresis is indicated when sonographic scans are difficult to interpret.