What Are the Causes of Spina Bifida?

Spina Bifida Explained: Types, Causes & Risk Factors

Spina bifida is a condition that affects the development of our spine and spinal cord. It is one of the most common birth defects related to the nervous system and can vary widely in severity. Understanding what causes spina bifida and the different types and symptoms can help ease concerns and provide proper support.

What is spina bifida?

Spina bifida is a neural tube defect that happens when the bones of the spine do not form properly during early pregnancy. A neural tube is a structure in a developing embryo that eventually forms the brain, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues.

Normally, a neural tube closes by the fourth week of pregnancy. But in babies with spina bifida, part of the neural tube stays open, which leaves a gap in our spine. This can cause damage to the spinal cord and nerves.

Each year, 4 out of every 1000 children born in India have spina bifida. The severity of spina bifida varies depending on the size and location of the opening and whether the spinal cord is affected. Some children may have mild symptoms with little or no disability, while others face significant challenges.

What are the 3 types of spina bifida?

Spina bifida can be classified into three main types, which differ in how much the spinal cord and nerves are affected. Here is a detailed breakdown of the three types:

1. Spina Bifida Occulta: This is the mildest and most common form. Occulta means hidden because the defect is covered by skin and is usually unnoticeable. Often, there is no visible sign on the back, and many people with this type may never know they have it unless it is discovered by accident during an X-ray or scan for another reason. Spina bifida occulta rarely causes symptoms or problems. In most cases, it does not require treatment.
2. Meningocele: In this type, the protective covering around the spinal cord pushes out through the gap in the spine. It forms a sac filled with fluid. The spinal cord itself usually stays in place. Meningocele is less common and may cause mild disabilities. Surgery can help to repair its opening and prevent infection or further damage.
3. Myelomeningocele: It is the most severe form of spina bifida. The meninges and the spinal cord both push through the gap in the spine. Babies with myelomeningocele usually face serious complications such as paralysis, loss of sensation, and bladder or bowel problems. It creates a sac on the baby's back and exposes the nerves to damage. The treatment often involves surgery soon after birth and lifelong care to manage its symptoms.
    

What Causes Spina Bifida?

The exact cause of spina bifida is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Here are some of the known causes and risk factors of spina bifida:

• Genetic Factors: Family history plays a crucial role in spina bifida. If someone already has a family member with this condition, the chances of it happening in the next child are higher. Certain genes that affect how the neural tube develops might increase the risk.

However, a single gene does not cause spina bifida. It involves many genes working together to cause this defect.

• Nutritional Factors: One of the most important causes linked to spina bifida is a lack of folic acid (vitamin B9) during early pregnancy. Folic acid is significant for the healthy development of the neural tube.

Women who do not get enough folic acid before and during early pregnancy have a higher risk of having a baby with spina bifida. This is why health experts recommend women take folic acid supplements, especially if they plan to become a mother.

• Environmental and Other Risk Factors

Certain environmental factors may also increase the risk of spina bifida. These include:

• Women with poorly controlled diabetes may have a higher chance of having a baby with spina bifida.
• Mothers who are overweight or obese have an increased risk.
• Some anti-seizure medicines and other drugs may raise the risk if taken during pregnancy.
• Alcohol, smoking, or exposure to toxins can affect foetal development.
• Increased stress during pregnancy may be associated with a higher risk.
   

It is crucial to know that many women with these risk factors have healthy babies, and many babies with spina bifida are born to mothers with no known risks.

By taking some simple actions, different cases of spina bifida can be controlled and reduced. Nonetheless, not all may be prevented. The most effective way is to take folic acid supplements before conception and during the first trimester of pregnancy. Remember that a healthy lifestyle, managing existing medical conditions, avoiding harmful substances, and regular check-ups help to reduce the risk.

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