Spina bifida diagnosis

Many pregnant women are unaware of why doctors often prescribe folic acid to them. It prevents spinal cord hernias and neural tube formation defects in fetuses. Spina bifida, a type of congenital malformation affecting the neural tube of the spinal cord and spine, can negatively impact the neuromuscular and musculoskeletal systems. During the initial pregnancy phases, the neural tube starts to form. It is a structure that includes the child's brain, spinal cord, and surrounding tissues. Unfortunately, in children with Spina bifida, certain portions of the neural tube fail to develop, leading to defects in the spine bones and spinal cord. The diagnosis for spinal defects is made by a neonatologist and neurologist based on clinical observations and palpation of the spine. A spine MRI is conducted to confirm the diagnosis, which shows any bone defects or deformities. Pregnant women can undergo prenatal screening to detect illness by ultrasound examination of the fetus. That helps to find the issue during pregnancy and have treatment right after birth or even during pregnancy (fetal surgery). However, tests are not an ideal solution. And most mothers with positive blood test results have normal children. So consult your doctor about prenatal testing, its risks, and the interpretation of its results.