Overview
Spina bifida is a spine condition that is usually found at birth. The term translates to “split spine,” and what happens is a part of the neural tube fails to develop correctly. Though the severity differs from case to case, this disease can cause problems with the spinal cord, nerves, and even the brain. Spina bifida is the most common permanently disabling birth condition and affects 1 in every 2,875 births in the US. There are many different types of the disease, but the most common are spina bifida occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele.
Spina bifida occulta is the least severe type and doesn’t usually cause disabilities. It is often called “hidden” spina bifida because those affected are usually healthy and don’t find it until late childhood or adulthood. Meningocele occurs when a sac of fluid comes through an opening in the back, but the spinal cord is not in it. This can cause minor disabilities. Myelomeningocele is the most serious type. In it, part of the spinal cord and other nerves come out of the back, and are in the sac.
Causes, Cures, and More
While spina bifida is suspected to be linked with genetics and environment, there is no certain cause. Some forms of spina bifida can be detected during pregnancy through AFP screening or ultrasounds. Other forms, like ones that cause a protruding sac, are found after birth.
Treatment is typically done during the pregnancy or right after birth, excluding spina bifida occulta, which usually doesn’t need treatment. When treatment is given depends on severity, how far along a pregnancy is, and other factors. Prenatal surgeries have been shown to have better outcomes, but present risks to both the baby and the mother. In postnatal surgery, children with meningocele or myelomeningocele are treated with surgery days after birth. This allows for them to heal better, as well as prevent any further issues. Additionally, spina bifida can be prevented by women taking folic acid.
Fortunately, since it is detected and treated early on, spina bifida is rarely fatal. However, as with all conditions, there are always risks and varying cases. It is also important to remember that the back and spinal cord are important to the rest of the body. Therefore, conditions affecting the spinal cord, such as spina bifida, can cause other issues. These issues may include brain damage and mobility issues.
Additional Info
Since the causes of spina bifida are largely unknown, there are still many ongoing studies concerning it. Some scientists supported by NINDS are currently studying genetic causes of neural tube defects. NINDS is also looking at how brain and nervous systems develop to help improve understanding of conditions like spina bifida. There is also ongoing research about how to modify and improve surgeries and other treatments.
Resources
https://www.spinabifidaassociation.org
https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/spina-bifida
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/spina-bifida