Spina Bifida

Neurulation is a prenatal process by which the neural tube forms between the third and fourth weeks of gestation. Any disruption in this process leads to a neural tube defect, spina bifida being the most common neural tube defect. It is a rare congenital disease that affects the spine and brain development. There are four types of spina bifida, myelomenigocele being the most common and most severe. Spina bifida occulta is the second most common and mildest form. Spina bifida is a multifactorial disease, but folic acid deficiency is the clearest risk factor supported by many studies. Mothers with previous spina bifida children are in risk for recurrent occurrence. Spina bifida patients present with many symptoms depending on the extent of the lesions. Many cases present with the skin of the back abnormality like sac filled with meningeal cells or CSF. There are neurological, developmental, urological, cognitive, and orthopedic symptoms. Hydrocephalus is associated with most cases. This leads to developmental delays and disabilities. Many cases are diagnosed prenatally by measuring alpha-fetoprotein levels in the second trimester and regular fetal ultrasonography. The closed types not discovered prenatally. After birth, we can do more radiological tests to confirm the diagnosis and assess its severity. We can also look for other congenital abnormalities, particularly urinary abnormalities. Many studies show that taking folic acid in the first trimester reduces the risk of developing spina bifida. Surgical intervention is the first treatment option within 48 h of delivery. In cases of hydrocephalus, surgery and shunt placement is life-saving.