Spina bifida is a type neural tube defect where the bones of the spine don’t form properly around part of the baby’s spinal cord. There are three types of spina bifida: spina bifida occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele. Spina bifida occulta is the mildest and most common form of spina bifida. It is also called hidden spina bifida. There is usually a small gap in the spine, but no opening or sack on the back. It can be recognized by a tuft or clump of hair, a dimple, or a birthmark where the spinal malformation takes place. Spina bifida occulta usually causes no disabilities. There is no nerve damage. Meningocele is rarer and more severe than spina bifida occulta. With meningocele, there is a sac of fluid that protrudes from the spinal canal. Usually, there is little or no nerve damage. Meningocele causes minor disabilities. Myelomeningocele is the most serious but the most severe type of spina bifida. Like meningocele, there is a sac of fluid that comes through the baby’s back. Some of the spinal cord and nerves are damaged. Myelomeningocele causes moderate to severe disabilities.
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No one really knows the specific cause of this disorder. There are many theories as to what causes it. These theories are usually complications with the mother such as diabetes, medically diagnosed obesity, seizure disorders, high body temperatures during early pregnancy, inadequate folic acid intake, and poor nutrition. The mortality rate for spina bifida is 10-15%. That means that it is a disorder that will most likely not kill the person with the
No one really knows the specific cause of this disorder. There are many theories as to what causes it. These theories are usually complications with the mother such as diabetes, medically diagnosed obesity, seizure disorders, high body temperatures during early pregnancy, inadequate folic acid intake, and poor nutrition. The mortality rate for spina bifida is 10-15%. That means that it is a disorder that will most likely not kill the person with the