SPINA BIFIDA Meaning and
Definition
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Spina bifida is a congenital disorder characterized by an incomplete closure of the neural tube during embryonic development, leading to defects in the spinal cord and surrounding structures. The name "spina bifida" is derived from Latin, meaning "split spine."
In spina bifida, the vertebral arches at the back of the spine fail to fully close, causing a small opening or gap. This opening may occur anywhere along the spinal cord but is most commonly found in the lower back region. As a result, the spinal cord and its protective membranes may protrude through the opening, forming a sac-like structure called a meningocele or myelomeningocele. These sacs may contain spinal fluid, nerve roots, and sometimes parts of the spinal cord itself.
The severity of spina bifida can vary greatly. Some individuals may experience minimal symptoms and require minimal intervention, while others may suffer from significant neurological deficits, including paralysis, loss of sensation, and difficulties with bladder and bowel control. Spina bifida can also cause intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as complications such as hydrocephalus (excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain) and orthopedic abnormalities.
There are several types of spina bifida, including occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele, with myelomeningocele being the most severe form. Spina bifida can be detected prenatally through imaging techniques such as ultrasound, allowing for early intervention and management.
While the exact cause of spina bifida is unknown, it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Folic acid supplementation during pregnancy has been shown to reduce the risk of spina bifida in newborns. Treatment options for spina bif
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A limited defect in the spinal column, consisting in absence of the vertebral arches, through which the spinal membranes, with or without spinal-cord tissue, protrude.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPINA BIFIDA
- apina bifida
- zpina bifida
- xpina bifida
- dpina bifida
- epina bifida
- wpina bifida
- soina bifida
- slina bifida
- s-ina bifida
- s0ina bifida
- spuna bifida
- spjna bifida
- spkna bifida
- spona bifida
- sp9na bifida
- sp8na bifida
- spiba bifida
- spima bifida
- spija bifida
Etymology of SPINA BIFIDA
The word "Spina Bifida" is derived from Latin. "Spina" means "thorn" or "spine" and "bifida" means "split" or "divided into two parts". Therefore, "Spina Bifida" literally translates to "split spine" in Latin. This term accurately describes the medical condition where the neural tube does not close properly during fetal development, leading to the malformation of the spinal cord and spine.
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