spina bifida

Question 1

Spina bifida

Answer 1

Neural tube defect when closure of backbone and membranes around spinal cord is incomplete
Usually have paralysis below lesion (mostly in severe form)

Question 2

3 types..

Answer 2

spina bifida occulta
Meningocele
myelomeningocele ( sb cystica)

Question 3

Spina bifida occulta

Answer 3

Section is malformed but spinal cord and nerves are not exposed

Question 4

meningocele

Answer 4

Membrane surrounding spinal cord is enlarged, creating a mass that protrudes out of back

Question 5

myelomeningocele

Answer 5

a section of spinal cord and nerves from the cord are exposed and visible on the outside of the body
MOST SEVERE FORM

Question 6

S/S spina bifida

Answer 6

Visualization of meningocele or myelomeningocele
Weakness
Paralysis below lesion (usually severe form)
sensory loss

Question 7

Severe s/s

Answer 7

Visualization of myelomeningocele
neurological deficits
Hip and joint deformities
impaired bowel/bladder function

Question 8

DX spina bifida

Answer 8

prenatal dx @ 10-12 weeks gestation
maternal serum testing of alpha-fetoprotein, ^^ AFP may indicate NTD, as they leak this substance
visualization after delivery
mri/ct scan

Question 9

Prevention of spina bifida

Answer 9

Controlling environmental factors...
avoid smoking, ETOH, hyperthermia
Prenatal vitamins- 400 mg folic acid, good nutrition
preg women w/ DM- watch BG levels
meds during pregnancy- antiepileptic