Spina bifida (split spine) is one of the most common types of birth defect. It is a type of neural tube defect that typically occurs in the first trimester of pregnancy when a baby’s neural tube fails to develop or close properly. It affects 1 in every 2,758 births each year.
Cause
We do not know what causes spina bifida. Further research is needed to better understand the potential risk factors. It is suggested that a combination of genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors act together to cause the condition. If you are an expectant parent, click here for additional information and resources that may benefit you.
Types of Spina Bifida
The three most common types of Spina Bifida are as follows:
Spina Bifida Occulta
Occulta means hidden in Latin. This type is also called “hidden Spina Bifida” because the defect is not visible. Spina bifida occulta is a malformation of one or more vertebrae. In most cases, it causes no harm or symptoms. People may only find out they have the condition after receiving an X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan for an unrelated issue. Occasionally, spina bifida occulta does cause pain and neurological symptoms when the defect is more extensive.
Meningocele
Meningocele is the condition in which a sac of nerve fluid comes through an opening in the baby’s spine. There is usually little to no nerve damage. People with meningocele may experience minor disabilities.
Myelomeningocele
myelo = the nerves of the spinal cord
meningo = the meninges, or coverings around the spinal cord
cele = a swelling or bulging
Myelomeningocele, the most severe form of Spina Bifida, happens when a sac formed by the spinal cord and its membranes protrude through the spinal column’s bones. It often causes moderate to severe disabilities, such as leg weaknesses or paralysis, bowel or bladder incontinence, and other neurological problems.
Diagnosis
Spina bifida can be diagnosed during pregnancy or after birth. However, for spina bifida occulta, it may not be diagnosed until late childhood or adulthood. It might also never be diagnosed.
During pregnancy, there are three screening tests to check for spina bifida and other birth defects in utero. They are alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), ultrasound, and amniocentesis. A physical examination and image scans are performed to detect spina bifida after the baby is born.
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Treatments
Treatments depend on the types, the symptoms, and the complications the person with spina bifida may have.
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Living with Spina Bifida
Spina bifida affects people differently. Some people may experience little to no disability, while others may be seriously limited in their daily lives. It is important to learn about the specific situation of the affected individual in order to seek the right treatment. Most people with spina bifida can lead a productive life with the proper care.
Click here to find resources on how to live with spina bifida at different ages.
Other Resources
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention