Spina Bifida
Description
Spina bifida occulta is a congenital malformation in which there is incomplete closure of the spinal arch at one or more levels. It is a type of birth defect called a neural tube defect and occurs when the bones of the spine (vertebrae) don't form properly around part of the baby's spinal cord. Spina bifida can be mild or severe. The mild form is the most common. It usually doesn't cause problems or need treatment. A rare and more severe form is meningocele. In this form, fluid leaks out of the spine and pushes against the skin. In this case a bulge may be observed in the skin. In many cases, there are no other symptoms. The most rare and severe form is myelomeningocele. It is what most people mean when they say "spina bifida". In this condition, part of the spinal nerves push out of spinal canal, and the nerves are often damaged. You may see a bulge in the skin. In some babies, the skin is open and the nerves are exposed. Each year, about
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It is however proposed to be caused by genetic or environmental causes. Women who have had one child with spina bifida are more likely to have another child with the disease. Women who are obese or who have diabetes are also more likely to have a child with spina bifida.
Symptoms
Most children with the mild form of spina bifida do not show any symptoms and also do not face any complications. Even the children with meningocele are at very low risk of developing complications. Children with the most severe form of spina bifida (myelomeningocele) often have spine and brain issues that cause serious problems. They may show symptoms of
• Little or no feeling in their legs, feet, or arms.
• Bladder or bowel problems, such as leaking urine or having a hard time passing stools.
• Fluid build-up in the brain (hydrocephalus). Even when it is treated, this may cause seizures, learning problems, or vision problems.
• A curve in their spine, such as