Spina bifida Flashcards
1
Q
Aetiologies?
A
Maternal folic acid deficiency
2
Q
Pathology?
A
Failure of neural tube to fuse during embryogenesis –> spaces in vertebral column
3
Q
Signs and symptoms?
A
Varying degrees from asymptomatic to complete paralysis Depends on how much of the spinal cord and its coverings protrude through
4
Q
Investigations and Findings?
A
Severe disease obvious on physical examination Oculta seen incidentally on x-ray later in life Cyst on the back in the midline
5
Q
Management?
A
Surgical repair ASAP
6
Q
Complications?
A
Treatment not always successful Quality of life impaired
