Spina Bifida

Also called neural tube disorder.  A developmental disorder in which one or more of the vertebrae (bones of the spine) fail to develop properly, often forming a gap or split in the back region that is covered only by a layer of skin.  An affected child may have difficulty learning to walk or have major problems with the legs, lower back, bladder, and bowls. There are 3 categories of spina bifida.  The midest form is occulta, where there is no opening in the back, but the outer part of some vertebrae are malformed.   The meninges and spinal chords are not damaged and the nerves are usually intact.  It rarely causes symptoms. The second type is meningocele spina bifida, in which  the spinal opening is great enough that the meninges can protrude through it.  They are damaged and may appear as a cerebrospinal fluid filled sac.  There may not be skin covering the opening.  The symptoms may range from few to moderate.  The third and most sever type is myelomeningocele spina bifida.  The spinal opening is so severe that the spinal cord is exposed.  This results in partial or complete paralysis of the body.  There can be hydrocephalus (buildup of fluid in the skull) which can cause learning disabilities.  There may also be urinary or bowl dysfunction.  There is currently no cure. Treatments aim to relieve symptoms, and may include medication, surgery, physical therapy, and assistive mobility devices such as braces, crutches, or wheelchairs.