Spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect. It is caused by an incomplete closing of the embryonic neural tube. The vertebrae overlying the neural tube defect do not become fully formed and remain unfused and open. If the opening is large enough, this allows a portion of the spinal cord to herniate through the opening in the bones.

Although the cause is not known, low folate levels during pregnancy increase risk. Some children are asymptomatic, and others have severe neurologic dysfunction below the lesion.

It can be diagnosed prenatally by ultrasonography or suggested by elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels in maternal serum. Treatment is usually surgical although it is not curative.

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(This isn't individual medical advice, please use your own clinical judgement and local guidelines when caring for your patients)