spina bifida

A congenital malformation in which the spinal column is split (bifid) as a result of failed closure of the embryonic neural tube, during the fourth week post-fertilization. When the neural tube does not close all the way, the vertebra that protects the spinal cord does not form and close as it should. This often results in damage to the spinal cord and nerves. (Types) • Spina bifida occulta: Gap in one or more vertebrae of the spine. • Meningocele: A cyst containing meninges. • Myelomeningocele (open spina bifida): Most severe. Poor ability to walk, impaired bladder or bowel control, hydrocephalus, a tethered spinal cord, and latex allergy. (Diagnosis) It can be diagnosed during pregnancy or after the baby is born. Spina bifida occulta might not be diagnosed until late childhood or adulthood, or might never be diagnosed. Screening tests during pregnancy: • alphafetoprotein (AFP): A protein the unborn baby produces. A simple blood test that measures how much AFP has passed into the mother&bloodstream from the baby. A high level of AFP might be the positive sign. • Amniocentesis: Taking a small sample of the amniotic fluid in the uterus, higher than average levels of AFP might be the positive sign. • Ultrasound: An imaging technique that uses sound waves to produce images of a fetus in the uterus. After the baby is born: • X-ray, MRI, CT: To get a clearer view of the baby&spine and the vertebrae. (Triple screen) An investigation performed during pregnancy in the second...