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Abstract

Spina bifida is common birth defect that happened in the area of baby backbone (Spinal Cord) does not form normally. The term Spina Bifida comes from Latin word that literally mean “Split Spina”. In this condition where the bones in the vertebral column do not fully cover the spinal cord and leaving it exposed. Spina Bifida falls under the broader category of Neural Tube Defects. Generally, the neural tube forms early in pregnancy, and it closes by the 28th day after Conception. In babies with spina bifida, a portion of the neural tube fails to develop or close properly, causing defects in the spinal cord and in the bones of the spine. Normally lower back is the most common location, but in rare cases it may be the neck or middle back. One child having with the condition, there is 4% chance that the next child will also be affected. There are three main types of spina bifida: Spina Bifida Occulta, Myelomeningocele, and Meningocele. In these types of Spina Bifida, Myelomeningocele is the most serious type and a sac of fluid comes through an opening in the baby’s back. Symptoms and signs of spins bifida differ by type and severity. Symptoms can also vary for each person like Birthmark, hair patch, leaking of urine and leaking of stool, muscle weakness, paralysis etc. Complications of spina bifida are generally seen by poor ability to walk, hydrocephalus and problems with bladder or bowel control. Causes of spina bifida exactly unknown or mystery but Scientists suspect various factors like insufficient intake of folic acid, and also genetic, nutritional and environmental. Prevention of spina bifida is difficult, but folic acid and tests during pregnancy can help. Risks factors of spina bifida refer are folate deficiency, diabetes, obesity, increased body temperature and also some medications like anti-seizure (valproic acid). Diagnosis can be carried out by blood test, ultrasound, and amniocentesis. Depends up on the signs and symptoms treatments of spin bifida are Surgery before birth, cesarean birth, surgery after birth, and treatment for complications.

Keywords

Spina Bifida Spinal Cord , Neural Tube Defects Myelomeningocele

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