Spina Bifida
Spina bifida is characterized by the incomplete closing of the backbone and other membranes that should surround the spinal cord. The condition normally affects the lower back of the victim, but rare situations occur, where the disease affects the middle back and the neck. The condition is a congenital disability that is recognized during childbirth. The condition occurs in three different forms among different people; occult, meningocele, and myelomeningocele. The primary symptom of Spina Bifida is the appearance of a birthmark around the area affected.
The primary symptom of Spina Bifida is the appearance of a tuft of hair or a different form of a birthmark at the area with the defect of the defect. Patients affected with meningocele and myelomeningocele always have a sac poking through the back of the infant at childbirth (Anderson & Spain, 2016). The symptom associated primarily with meningocele is the appearance of a thin layer of skin of the poking sac. Other signs could include weak leg muscles breathing difficulties, and swallowing problems among children.
The specific cause of Spina Bifida is not yet known. However, the condition has been associated with a combination of environmental and family factors. The diagnosis of Spina Bifida can be made by carrying tests while the baby is still on the womb. Blood tests, ultrasound, and amniocentesis are some of the tests that can help diagnose the problem. Spina Bifida can be corrected by carrying out surgical operations when the child is still young. The surgery done can be aimed to place the membranes in the right position or to help in the collection of water in the brain. Also, the surgery can be done before birth or immediately after the baby is born.
In sum, Spina Bifida is a congenital disability that can be corrected at the initial stages of growth. The conditions are characterized by incomplete closing of the backbone with victims showing signs of weak muscles and breathing problems. The condition can be corrected through surgery.