Spina bifida is a type of birth defect that is grouped into a larger category of birth defects called "neural tube defects". The neural tube is the structure in the embryo that develops into the brain and spinal cord. Those who are born with this condition have suffered a problem with the closing or development of the neural tube. This in turn causes problems with the development of the spinal cord and the bones in the spine. The severity of the condition will vary between patients. In some cases, when treatment is necessary, doctors will recommend surgery.
Three Types of Spina Bifida
There are three different forms of spina bifida. The mildest form is spina bifida occulta. This cause a gap or separation in the vertebrae that is quite small. Those children who have this condition do not generally show any signs or symptoms, and they have no neurological problems because it is so mild. This is due to the fact that the spinal nerves are not typically involved in this condition.
However, there could be some physical indicators that highlight a potential defect in the spine. These include a collection of fat near the spinal defect, or abnormal hair growth near the site. In addition, a dimple or birthmark on the spine could indicate a problem. The majority of people who have this particular condition will not know unless they have an x-ray, generally for another problem, that illuminates the condition.
Another form of spina bifida is meningocele. It is a rare condition where the meninges, protective membranes on the spinal cord, actually push through the opening of the vertebrae. Most of the time, the spinal cord will still develop normally, and this makes it relatively easy for surgeons to remove the membranes without risk of damage to the nerve pathways.
The severest form of spina bifida is myelomeningocele. This condition causes the baby's spinal canal to remain open on a number of the vertebrae, generally along the lower or middle portion of the back. The opening allows the spinal cord and the membranes to protrude at birth, and this causes a sac to form on the infant's back. Sometimes, skin will cover this sac. The majority of the time, that's not the case. The nerves and the tissues are open and exposed, which drastically elevates the risk of infection.
Children who have spina bifida can suffer from a number of different problems including issues with the bowel and bladder, seizures, orthopedic issues, such as scoliosis or deformed feet. It can also cause weakness in the muscles of the legs.
What Causes the Problem?
Unfortunately, doctors do not actually know what
causes spina bifida. Through the research completed, it seems as though it is a combination of genetic factors as well as environmental factors. Although doctors are not 100% certain about the causes of the condition, they have found that there are some risk factors associated with it. For example, spina bifida is more prevalent among those who are of Hispanic descent and those who are of Caucasian descent. Girls suffer from the condition more often than boys. A family history of neural defects can also play a part. Those who have had a child who has suffered from the defect will be at a greater risk if they have another child.
In addition, a deficiency of vitamin B-9, certain anti-seizure medications, diabetes, and obesity can play a factor in increasing the risks. Patients who have common risk factors should talk with their doctors about those risks and what they can do about them. The doctor will be able to provide the patients with information on the risk factors, as well as how they can help the children in the event that they suffer from the condition.
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