English

Abstract

Spina Bifida (SB) is a neural tube defect (NTD) due defect in neural tube,characterized by incomplete closure of spinal column. Occurrence of SB varies in differentcountries. In developed countries, it is about 0.4 per 1000 births, in US 0.7 per 1000 births and inAsia 1.9 per 1000 births. SB mostly occurs during first trimester of pregnancy. Variants of SB areSpina bifida Occulata, Spina bifida Cystica [meningocele and myelomeningocele], Spina bifidaManifesta and Spina bifida Aperta. Among these myelomeningocele is the most common type.Causing agents of SB may be genetic, non-genetic or environmental factors. Non-genetic factorsinvolve anti-convulsant drugs, anti-epileptic drugs, maternal obesity, maternal diabetes andpoor nutritional status (folate and vitamin B12 deficiency). Environmental factors are pesticides,nitrated compounds and air pollution. Common manifestations are brain malformations (ArnoldChiari II malformation and hydrocephalus), spinal cord abnormalities, latex allergy, breathingproblems, urological abnormalities and cardio-metabolic dysfunction. Diagnostic techniquesfor Spina bifida are ultrasound screening, Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI), amniocentesisand maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein. To prevent the risk of Spina bifida, it is recommended forthe mother to use 0.4mg of folic acid per day or in mothers affected with multiple pregnanciesrecommended dose of folic acid is 4mg per day.