Symptoms Of Spina Bifida

Symptoms Of Myelomeningocele

Myelomeningocele is the most severe form of spina bifida, and although it shares many of the same symptoms as the other types, it also has its own symptoms to be aware of. Some of the specific symptoms of this type include cognitive and learning difficulties, especially if hydrocephalus is present, Type II Arnold-Chiari malformation, coordination, paralysis, bowel and urinary incontinence, meningitis, and other problems.

In this severe state, an individual may experience awareness, thinking, judging, knowing, and learning difficulties, as issues with the neural tube can have a negative impact on the brain’s development. Specifically, if the brain’s cortex and frontal lobe do not develop properly, cognitive and learning difficulties can quickly arise. Patients can also experience Type II Arnold-Chiari malformation, which is an abnormal brain development involving the cerebellum, which can cause hydrocephalus, and affects language processing and physical coordination. Other issues a patient may experience are skin and gastrointestinal problems, latex allergies, and depression.

Other Symptoms Of The Different Types

Besides the most severe type, myelomeningocele, spina bifida presents itself in two additional forms: occulta and meningocele. Spina bifida occulta means 'hidden' as this is the mildest form of this condition, and many individuals with this form are not even aware they have it as it is generally asymptomatic. The most obvious sign of this type is a tuft of hair or a birthmark at the site of the defect.

Meningocele spina bifida (along with myelomeningocele) is when a visible sac is poking through the infant’s back, and there may be a thin layer of skin covering this sac. Specifically, with meningocele, the membranes around the spinal cord protrude out through an opening in the vertebrae, forming a fluid-filled sac, and is quite visible at birth.