Spina Bifida

The fetus might be susceptible to birth defects due to many reasons, such as spina bifida, which is a common condition and has more than one type.

Spina bifida

Spina bifida is a birth defect that occurs when there is a problem in the neural tube (it forms the brain and spinal cord during embryonic development) that prevents the fetus’s spine and spinal cord from closing as they should.

Types of spina bifida:

Spina bifida occulta, which is the most common and mildest type. It causes a small gap in one or more of the vertebrae.

Myelomeningocele (open spina bifida), which is the most severe type. It causes the formation of a fluid-filled sac that contains part of the spinal cord and nerves on a gap in the spine.

Meningocele, which is the rarest type. It causes a fluid-filled sac to form on the opening of a gap in the spine but without affecting the nerves.

Causes and risk factors leading to spina bifida

The exact cause of spina bifida isn’t known, but the following factors increase the risk of it:

• Folate (Vitamin B9) deficiency.
• Family history.
• Uncontrolled diabetes.
• Obesity.
• Some anti-seizure medicines.
• Increased body temperature.

Symptoms of spina bifida

Symptoms of spina bifida vary between patients and depending on the type. They might include:

• Back pain.
• Leg weakness.
• Issues with bladder and bowel function.
• Loss of sensations.
• Mild cases of spina bifida might not cause any symptoms.

Complications of spina bifida

• Learning disabilities.
• Difficulty walking.
• Paralysis in the legs.
• Scoliosis.
• Tethered spinal cord.
• Hydrocephalus.
• Meningitis.
• Sleeping problems.
• Skin problems.
• Urinary tract infections.
• Gastrointestinal issues.
• Depression.

Diagnosis of spina bifida

• Blood tests.
• Amniocentesis.
• Imaging tests.

Treatment of spina bifida

• Surgery before or after birth.
• Medications.
• Physical therapy.