Birth Anomaly: Spina Bifida, a Conditions Present at Birth
Spina Bifida is a neural tube defect that occurs during embryonic development, typically between the 22nd and 28th week of pregnancy. This condition is caused by an incomplete closing of the neural tube, resulting in various degrees of damage to the spinal cord and surrounding tissues.
There are several factors that contribute to the development of Spina Bifida. Genetic factors play a role, as well as a folic acid deficiency or disruptions in the folic acid metabolism. A lack of essential nutrients such as proteins, iron, magnesium, and niacin before conception can also increase the risk of neural tube defects. Conditions like diabetes and obesity may also increase the risk of having a baby with Spina Bifida.
If a mother's levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in her bloodstream are found to be insufficient, it could be a sign of Spina Bifida in the foetus. The Maternal Serum Alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test is used to assess these levels. If AFP is found, further blood tests and ultrasound scans are ordered to identify the reasons for high AFP levels and check for signs of Spina Bifida.
There are different types and severities of Spina Bifida. Spina Bifida Occulta is the least severe form, characterized by a hidden affected area, often covered by a layer of skin or a patch of hair, with no major complications. On the other hand, Spina Bifida Cystic is more severe, with the presence of a sac or a cyst, and can be further categorized into Myelomeningocele and Meningocele.
Myelomeningocele is a severe form of Spina Bifida Cystic, where a large fluid-filled sac bulges out of the baby's back, exposing the spine and nerve. Babies with Myelomeningocele need to undergo surgery immediately after birth to close the opening in the back. Meningocele, on the other hand, is the rarest form, where a fluid-filled sac is present on the head, neck, or back, and can be as large as a grapefruit or as small as a grape. Babies with meningocele may undergo meningocele surgery where the meninges are pushed and the hole is closed.
Support from qualified healthcare professionals is crucial in carrying out complex surgeries and monitoring the health of the baby. Physical therapies can also help improve the strength and functioning of limbs in case of paralysis or difficulty in movement. The fluid build-up in the baby can be prevented by the timely draining into the stomach through endoscopic third ventriculostomy procedure or a shunt procedure.
Undergoing tests to identify neural tube defects during pregnancy can help in identifying the condition at the earliest and enable necessary preventive measures to be taken. Consuming 400 micrograms of folic acid before pregnancy and continuing to take it throughout the first trimester can help prevent Spina Bifida.
Family history also plays a role in Spina Bifida, as if one infant is born with Spina Bifida, the chances are strong that future siblings will also have the same condition. It is important to note that while the exact cause of Spina Bifida is not known, it is most likely due to a combination of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors.
In conclusion, Spina Bifida is a serious condition that requires careful monitoring and treatment. By understanding its causes, detection methods, and available treatments, expectant parents can take necessary steps to protect their babies from this condition.
