In: Anatomy and Physiology
What is “spina bifida”? What is “spina bifida occulta” Provide a well-informed answer and not just a one word answer
Spina bifida is a congenital defect, in which the bones in the vertebral column do not fully cover the spinal cord,leaving it exposed. Spina bifida can affect the physical and intellectual development. It is caused by the incomplete closing of the embryonic neural tube. A low intake of folic acid before and during pregnancy has been linked to spina bifida.
There are three types of spinal bifida: Spina bifida occulta, Meningocele and Myelomemnigocele.
Spina bifida occulta is the most common and mildest form of spinal bifida. "Occulta" means hidden in latin. Therefore people having this defect are not even aware that they have it. In this defect the spine and the nerves are fine but there can be a small gap in the spine. There is no disbaility associated with type of spina bifida.
Spina bifida occulta is usually characterized by the presence of small birth mark, tuft of hair or dimple on the skin where the defect is present.