Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Anencephaly is a severe neural tube defect primarily referred to by its medical name, though it is sometimes historically or clinically categorized under the broader umbrella of neural tube defects (NTDs) or cranioschisis. Because it is a specific diagnostic entity, there are few true synonyms, but it is frequently discussed in medical literature alongside terms related to its developmental origin. What are the common names and medical classifications for Anencephaly? While Anencephaly is the universally accepted medical term, you may encounter it in older records or international databases under specific classification codes.
Anencephaly synonyms
Other names for Anencephaly: synonyms, acronyms and related terms used by doctors and patients.
Anencephaly is a severe neural tube defect primarily referred to by its medical name, though it is sometimes historically or clinically categorized under the broader umbrella of neural tube defects (NTDs) or cranioschisis. Because it is a specific diagnostic entity, there are few true synonyms, but it is frequently discussed in medical literature alongside terms related to its developmental origin.
What are the common names and medical classifications for Anencephaly?
While Anencephaly is the universally accepted medical term, you may encounter it in older records or international databases under specific classification codes. In medical taxonomy, Anencephaly is recognized as a lethal congenital malformation. Because Anencephaly represents a failure of the neural tube to close at the cranial end, it is strictly classified as a cephalic disorder.
Are there alternative terms or historical names for Anencephaly?
In older medical texts or specific diagnostic coding systems, you may see Anencephaly associated with the following terms or descriptive categories:
- Acrania: Sometimes used to describe the lack of cranial vault development, though this is technically a distinct component of the Anencephaly spectrum.
- Neural Tube Defect (NTD): The broad category encompassing Anencephaly, spina bifida, and encephalocele.
- Cranioschisis: A descriptive term for the skull defect associated with Anencephaly.
- ICD-10 Code Q00.0: The official international classification for Anencephaly.
Why does medical terminology for Anencephaly vary?
The terminology remains stable because Anencephaly is a distinct, well-defined clinical diagnosis. Variations in naming usually occur due to the inclusion of associated anomalies or the use of broader descriptive categories in research. Medical professionals prefer Anencephaly because it precisely describes the absence of major portions of the brain and skull, ensuring clear communication among obstetricians, geneticists, and neonatologists.
Next steps
- Consult with a board-certified genetic counselor to discuss the recurrence risks of Anencephaly in future pregnancies.
- Connect with the 31 members of the DiseaseMaps.org community who have navigated this diagnosis.
- Seek support from bereavement specialists or organizations specializing in perinatal loss.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.
References
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD).
- Orphanet: Portal for rare diseases and orphan drugs (ORPHA: 79333).
- Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database (Entry #206500).
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Facts about Anencephaly.
