Spina Bifida By: Kristina Gooden

How it is transmitted or caused…. Spina Bifida, also known as Neural tube defects, can be genetic. Environmental factors such as nutrition and exposure to harmful substances contribute to spina bifida. High temperatures in early pregnancy, use of certain anti-seizure medication, and medically diagnosed obesity are causes.

Symptoms and area of Nervous System affected…. Spinal cord deformity, various degrees of leg paralysis, spine curvature, hip, foot, and leg deformities, and problems with bowel and bladder control. Spinal column, spinal cord, and the vertebrae are all affected.

Who is affected and what is the prognosis… 65 million women of childbearing age are all at risk of having a pregnancy affected by Spina Bifida.  Prognosis is poorest for those with complete paralysis, hydrocephalus, and other congenital defects. With proper care, most children with SB live well into adulthood.

Treatments available… There is no cure for SB because the nerve tissue cannot be replaced or repaired. Surgery to close the newborn's spinal opening is performed within 24 hours after birth to minimize the risk of infection and to preserve existing function in the spinal cord. Treatments may include surgery, medication, and physiotherapy.

Interesting Facts… Over 73 % of people with spina bifida develop an allergy to latex. Approximately 1 in 2,000 babies are born with spina bifida. It occurs more frequently in white people of European descent.

2 Websites www.ninds.nih.gov www.spinabifidaassociation.org