Symptoms of Spina Bifida

Spina Bifida is a neural tube defect and one of the most common birth defects. It comes in three forms: occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele (March of Dimes). Depending on the type of Spina Bifida a child has, the symptoms will vary. Spina Bifida occulta is the least severe form of the defect and often results in the least severe symptoms. Myelomeningocele is the most severe form of the defect and usually results in the most severe signs and symptoms. The following are some of the most common symptoms of Spina Bifida.

Symptoms of Spina Bifida in Spina Bifida Occulta

According to the March of Dimes, Spina Bifida occulta is the least severe form of Spina Bifida. Sometimes the only sign that Spina Bifida occulta is present is a hairy patch or a dimple over the area of the spine that is affected by the defect. However, some patients with Spina Bifida occulta also experience muscle weakness in the legs, may have delayed walking as babies, and may also experience problems with bowel and bladder control.

Symptoms of Spina Bifida in Meningocele

Meningocele is the rarest form of Spina Bifida (March of Dimes). In this form of the birth defect, a fluid-filled cyst protrudes from the opening in the spine. This cyst must often be removed surgically soon after a baby’s birth. The size of this fluid-filled sac varies from as small as a walnut to as large as a grapefruit (Kids Health).

Symptoms of Spina Bifida in Myelomeningocele

Because myelomeningocele is the most severe form of Spina Bifida, the symptoms of Spina Bifida are usually the most severe when a child is affected with this form of the birth defect. The fluid-filled sac that protrudes from the opening in the spine can contain nerve roots or even the spinal cord. This must be surgically remedied. Having myelomeningocele can cause hydrocephalus, also known as water on the brain (Kids Health). If a Spina Bifida patient has hydrocephalus, some of the signs and symptoms of Spina Bifida can include a large head and headaches due to the extra fluid and pressure building up inside the skull (Kids Health).

Symptoms of Spina Bifida Reference Materials

The following reference materials were consulted during the preparation of this article on the symptoms of Spina Bifida. Consult these resources for more information and additional opportunities for learning.

March of Dimes Pregnancy & Newborn Health Education Center. Quick References and Fact Sheets. “Spina Bifida.” Retrieved December 18, 2008. Available: March of Dimes Pregnancy & Newborn Health Education Center

Kids Health for Parents. “Spina Bifida.” Retrieved December 18, 2008. Available: Kids Health for Parents