Spina bifida is a birth defect that affects the spine and is usually apparent at birth. It is a type of neural tube defect (NTD) . There are three main types of spina bifida: myelomeningocele, meningocele, and spina bifida occulta.
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Myelomeningocele: This is the most serious type of spina bifida. With this condition, a sac of fluid comes through an opening in the baby’s back. Part of the spinal cord and nerves are in this sac and are damaged. This type of spina bifida causes moderate to severe disabilities, such as problems affecting how the person goes to the bathroom, loss of feeling in the person’s legs or feet, and not being able to move the legs.
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Meningocele: With meningocele, a sac of fluid comes through an opening in the baby’s back, but the spinal cord is not in this sac. There is usually little or no nerve damage. This type of spina bifida can cause minor disabilities.
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Spina Bifida Occulta: This is the mildest type of spina bifida. With it, there is a small gap in the spine, but no opening or sac on the back. The spinal cord and the nerves usually are not affected, and most people with this type of spina bifida have no symptoms or disabilities.
The exact cause of spina bifida is unknown, but it is thought to result from a combination of genetic, nutritional, and environmental risk factors, such as a family history of neural tube defects and folate (vitamin B-9) deficiency. There is no cure for spina bifida, but treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment may include surgery, medication, and physical therapy.
