SpinaBifida

The symptoms of spina bifida depend on exactly where and what extent the spinal cord and overlying structures have not developed correctly. There are three common subtypes:

Occulta is often called hidden spina bifida, as the spinal cord and the nerves are usually normal and there is no opening on the back. This kind of spina bifida has just a minor defect or gap in the small bones (vertebrae) that make up the spine, and it affects roughly 12% of the population. In many situations, spina bifida occulta is so mild that no spinal function is affected. Unless it is identified on an x-ray, most individuals are unaware that they have spina bifida occulta. However, one in every 1,000 people has an occult structural discovery that causes neurological impairments or disabilities such as bowel or bladder problems, back discomfort, leg weakness, or scoliosis.

Meningocele arises when the bones surrounding the spinal cord do not close properly and the meninges are forced out through the opening, resulting in the formation of a fluid-filled sac. The dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater are three layers of membranes that envelop the spinal cord. In most instances, the spinal cord and nerves are unaffected or very mildly impacted. The sac is often covered by skin and may need surgery. This is the most uncommon kind of spina bifida.

Myelomeningocele accounts for about 75% of all spina bifida cases. The most severe version of the condition occurs when a part of the spinal cord itself protrudes through the back. In some situations, skin covers the sacs, while in others, tissue and nerves are exposed. The degree and location of the spinal cord abnormalities determine the level of neurological impairments. If just the bottom of the spinal cord is affected, there may be only bowel and bladder problems, but more severe instances might result in complete limb paralysis with bowel and bladder distress.