INFORMATION ON SPINA BIFIDA

Spina bifida is a neural tube defect is a disorder involving incomplete development of the brain, spinal cord, and/or their protective coverings caused by the failure of the fetus's spine to close properly during the first month of pregnancy. Spina Bifida means cleft spine, which is an incomplete closure in the spinal column.

Three types of Spina bifida:

1. Spina Bifida Occulta.
2. Meningocele.
3. Myelomeningocele.

SYNONYMS OF SPINA BIFIDA

Synonyms and related keywords:

1. Spina bifida cystica.
2. Spina bifida occulta.
3. Myelomeningocele.
4. Myelodysplasia.
5. Syringomeningocele.
6. Rachischisis posterior.
7. Syringomyelocele.
8. Diastematomyelia.

CAUSES OF SPINA BIFIDA

Doctors are not sure why neural tubes do not develop or close properly in some babies. Ninety-five percent of babies with spina bifida. If one child has spina bifida, the risk of recurrence in any subsequent pregnancy is about one in 40. If there are two affected children, the risk in any subsequent pregnancy is about one in 20. Spina bifida usually is an isolated birth defect. Women with certain chronic health problems, including diabetes and seizure disorders, have an increased risk of having a baby with spina bifida.

SYMPTOMS OF SPINA BIFIDA

In spina bifida occulta, the mildest form of spina bifida, an abnormal tuft of hair, a collection of fat, a small dimple, or a birthmark may be seen on the newborn's skin above the spinal defect and may be the only indication of the condition. For meningocele and myelomeningocele, the more serious forms of spina bifida, a sac may protrude from the spinal cord on the newborn's back or a section of spinal cord tissue may be exposed. Other symptoms include bowel and bladder problems, loss of feeling below the area of the lesion, and inability to move the lower legs. People with spina bifida occulta are almost always completely asymptomatic.

DIAGNOSIS OF SPINA BIFIDA

The doctor may suggest prenatal screening tests to check for spina bifida. When spina bifida is diagnosed before birth, health care professionals can provide parents with information and support.

Other may include:

1 Blood Test.
2 Ultrasound.
3 Amniocentesis.

TREATMENT OF SPINA BIFIDA

Children should be watched for signs of hydrocephalus, tethered spinal cord, seizure activity, obesity, bowel and/or bladder control problems, frequent urinary tract infections, learning disorders, emotional and psychosocial problems, and other complications of spina bifida. Children with spina bifida should be provided with prolonged physical therapy, physical education, or adaptive training while in school. Additional operations may be necessary to correct problems interfering with walking and other functions. Children can be taught techniques for emptying their bladder and bowels appropriately and independently, thus avoiding embarrassment