Spina New! Access

1. Definition Spina bifida (Latin for “split spine”) is a neural tube defect (NTD) that occurs during the first month of pregnancy when the spine and spinal cord do not form properly. It is a congenital condition where the bony arches of the vertebrae fail to close completely, potentially exposing the spinal cord or meninges. 2. Types Spina bifida is classified into three main types:

| Type | Description | Severity | |------|-------------|-----------| | | Small gap in the spine with no opening or sac; often no nerve damage. Skin dimple or tuft of hair may be present. | Mild; often asymptomatic | | Meningocele | Meninges (protective covering of spinal cord) protrude through the gap, forming a sac. Spinal cord remains intact. | Moderate; possible minor disability | | Myelomeningocele | Most severe form. Both meninges and spinal cord protrude; nerve damage is common. | Severe; paralysis, bladder/bowel dysfunction | 3. Causes and Risk Factors The exact cause is unknown, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors is believed to play a role. | Mild; often asymptomatic | | Meningocele |