Spina bifida (myelomeningocele, meningocele, occulta) – causes, symptoms, treatment
What is Spina Bifida?
What Causes Spina Bifida?
What are the Different Types of Spina Bifida?
How is Spina Bifida Diagnosed?
What are the Treatments for Spina Bifida?
What are the Complications of Spina Bifida?
How Can Spina Bifida be Prevented?
The severity and symptoms of spina bifida can vary greatly. Some individuals may have no or minimal signs, while others may experience significant physical and neurological disabilities. Common symptoms may include paralysis or weakness in the legs, bladder and bowel control problems, hydrocephalus (accumulation of fluid in the brain), and difficulty with mobility and coordination.
Spina bifida can be classified into three main types: myelomeningocele, meningocele, and spina bifida occulta. Myelomeningocele is the most severe type, where the spinal cord and its protective covering protrude through an opening in the spine, leading to increased risk of infection and other complications. Meningocele involves the herniation of only the protective covering of the spinal cord, and spina bifida occulta is the mildest form, usually causing no significant symptoms or disabilities.
The exact cause of spina bifida is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Adequate intake of folic acid before and during pregnancy has been shown to greatly reduce the risk of spina bifida, highlighting the importance of prenatal care and supplementation.
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Although spina bifida is a lifelong condition, treatment options are available to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life for affected individuals. Surgical interventions, physical therapy, assistive devices, and management of secondary complications are commonly employed approaches in the management of spina bifida.
It is crucial to provide comprehensive support, education, and resources for individuals with spina bifida and their families to maximize their potential and ensure their well-being throughout their lives.
Symptoms of Spina Bifida:
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Bladder or bowel control problems
- Muscle weakness or numbness
- Difficulty walking or standing
- Scoliosis (curvature of the spine)
- Hydrocephalus (build-up of fluid in the brain)
- Problems with learning and intellectual disabilities
- Delayed development of motor skills
- Abnormal eye movement or vision problems
- Seizures
- Clubfoot or other foot abnormalities
- Drooping eyelids (ptosis)
- Malformation or dysfunction of the spine
| Disease | Causes |
|---|---|
| Spina Bifida |
|
Diagnostic Methods
To diagnose spina bifida, healthcare professionals may use the following methods:
- Fetal Ultrasound: A prenatal ultrasound can help detect signs of spina bifida in the developing fetus.
- Amniocentesis: In this procedure, a sample of amniotic fluid is collected and analyzed to check for certain markers indicating spina bifida.
- Maternal Blood Screening: Blood tests performed on the pregnant mother can identify certain substances (e.g., alpha-fetoprotein) that may indicate the presence of spina bifida.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): In some cases, an MRI scan may be ordered to provide detailed images of the spine and brain, helping in the diagnosis of spina bifida.
It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis, as they may consider various symptoms, conduct specific tests, and evaluate individual cases accordingly.
