Spina Bifida and Anencephaly (cont.)
What causes spina bifida?
The exact cause of spina bifida remains a mystery. No one knows what disrupts
complete closure of the neural tube, causing a malformation to develop.
Scientists suspect genetic, nutritional,
and environmental factors play a role. Research studies indicate that
insufficient intake of folic acid - a common B vitamin - in the mother's diet is a
key factor in causing spina bifida and other neural tube defects.
Prenatal
vitamins that are prescribed for the pregnant
mother typically contain folic acid
as well as other vitamins.
What are the signs and symptoms of spina bifida?
The symptoms of spina bifida vary from person to person,
depending on the type. Often, individuals with occulta have no outward signs of
the disorder. Closed neural tube defects are often recognized early in life due
to an abnormal
tuft or clump of hair or a small dimple or birthmark on the skin
at the site of the spinal malformation.
Meningocele and myelomeningocele generally involve a fluid-filled sac—visible
on the back—protruding from the spinal cord. In meningocele, the sac may be
covered by a thin layer of skin, whereas in most cases of myelomeningocele,
there is no layer of skin covering the sac and a section of spinal cord tissue
usually is exposed.
What are the complications of spina bifida?
Complications of spina bifida can range from minor
physical problems to severe physical and mental disabilities. It is important to
note, however, that most people with spina bifida are of normal intelligence.
Severity is determined by the size and location of the malformation, whether or
not skin covers it, whether or not spinal nerves protrude from it, and which
spinal nerves are involved. Generally all nerves located below the malformation
are affected. Therefore, the higher the malformation occurs on the back, the
greater the amount of nerve damage and loss of muscle function and sensation.
In addition to loss of sensation and paralysis, another neurological
complication associated with spina bifida is Chiari II malformation—a rare
condition (but common in children with myelomeningocele) in which the brainstem
and the cerebellum, or rear
portion of the brain, protrude downward into the spinal canal or neck area. This
condition can lead to compression of the spinal cord and cause a variety of
symptoms including difficulties with feeding, swallowing, and breathing; choking; and arm stiffness.
Chiari II malformation may also result in a blockage of cerebrospinal fluid,
causing a condition called hydrocephalus, which is
an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain. Cerebrospinal fluid is
a clear liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. The buildup of fluid
puts damaging pressure on the brain. Hydrocephalus is commonly treated by
surgically implanting a shunt—a hollow tube—in the brain to drain the excess
fluid into the abdomen.
Some newborns with myelomeningocele may develop meningitis, an
infection in the meninges. Meningitis may cause brain injury and can be life-threatening.
Children with both myelomeningocele and hydrocephalus may have
learning
disabilities, including difficulty paying attention, problems with language and
reading comprehension, and trouble learning math.
Additional problems such as latex allergies, skin problems, gastrointestinal
conditions, and depression may occur as children with spina bifida get older.
Next: How is spina bifida diagnosed? »
- folic acid-oral, FA-8 - Consumer information about the medication FOLIC ACID - ORAL (FA-8), includes side effects, drug interactions, recommended dosages, and storage information. Read more about the prescription drug FOLIC ACID - ORAL.
- CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography) - CT Scan (Computerized Axial Tomography, CAT scan) is a procedure that assists in diagnosing tumors, fractures, bony structures, and infections in the organs and tissues of the body.
- Hydrocephalus - Learn about hydrocephalus (water on the brain) causes like brain trauma, stroke, infection, tumor, and more.
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