What causes omphalocele?

Omphalocele is a congenital condition caused by a failure of the abdominal wall to close properly during fetal development, resulting in the intestines or other abdominal organs protruding through the abdominal wall at the base of the umbilical cord. The exact cause is often unclear, but it is associated with genetic factors, maternal conditions, and certain environmental influences. Omphalocele can occur as an isolated defect or in conjunction with other congenital anomalies, such as chromosomal abnormalities.