Health Information : SPINA BIFIDA AND SPINAL DYSRAPHISM

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What is Spinal Dysraphism?

Spinal Dysraphism refers to the neurological disorders related to the malformations of the spinal cord.

What is Spina Bifida?

Spina Bifida is one of the most common forms of Spinal Dysraphism in which an embryo’s developing neural tube, the precursor to the brain and spinal cord, doesn’t not close properly. This birth defect affects the spinal cord itself, the coverings of the spinal cord and bones of spine.

What causes Spina Bifida?

Researchers have not been able to find the exact cause of Spina Bifida. However, there are certain factors that are held responsible for this disease, namely:

• Genetic disorder
• Folate deficiency
• Viral infection
• Certain medications
• Environmental conditions
• Exposure to radiation

What are the symptoms of Spina Bifida?

The symptoms of Spina Bifida depend on the location and severity of the neural tube defect. Several symptoms experienced in Spina Bifida are:

• Weakness in legs
• Paralysis
• Bowel or bladder problems
• Hydrocephalus
• Incontinence
• Serious infections

How can Spina Bifida be treated?

The goal of Spina Bifida treatment is to correct the physical malformation and for this, surgery is recommended. The infants born with their spinal cord exposed to skin must get surgical procedure done as early as possible in order to prevent infection and neurological deficits.