myelomeningocele

Myelomeningocele: A Severe Form of Spina Bifida

Myelomeningocele, also known as open spina bifida, is a birth defect that affects the spine and spinal cord. It occurs when the spine and spinal canal don't close properly before birth, resulting in the spinal cord and nerves developing outside of the body.

Characteristics of Myelomeningocele

• A severe form of spina bifida [1]
• The spinal cord and nerves develop outside of the body and are contained in a fluid-filled sac [2]
• A gap in the bones of the spine, which can be visible on the back [4]
• Can occur when the spine, spinal cord, and spinal canal don't close as they normally would [3]

Symptoms of Myelomeningocele

• The most common symptom is a visible fluid-filled sac protruding through the skin, typically at the base of the spine [8]
• This sac can expose an abnormality in the spinal cord and nerves [7]

Complications and Associated Conditions

• Can be accompanied by hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain) and mental retardation [10]
• A congenital defect that requires immediate medical attention after birth

References: [1] - Context result 3 [2] - Context result 2 [3] - Context result 3 [4] - Context result 4 [7] - Context result 7 [8] - Context result 8 [10] - Context result 10

Myelomeningocele, also known as spina bifida cystica, is a severe congenital defect that affects the spine and nervous system. The signs and symptoms of myelomeningocele can vary depending on the location and severity of the condition.

Common Symptoms:

• Weakness or paralysis of the legs [4]
• Loss of bladder or bowel control [5], [8], [10], [12]
• Partial or complete lack of sensation in the legs and feet [6], [7]
• Difficulty or inability to walk [6], [7]
• Poor or no bladder and bowel control [7]

Other Possible Symptoms:

• Abnormalities in the shape or structure of the feet or legs, such as clubfoot [9]
• Buildup of fluid inside the skull (hydrocephalus) [3], [10], [12]
• Spinal deformities [3]
• Caudal regression, a condition where the lower part of the body develops abnormally [3]

Severity and Location:

The severity and location of myelomeningocele can affect the symptoms. Babies with myelomeningoceles higher in their spine typically have more severe symptoms than those with myelomeningoceles lower in their spine.

It's essential to note that every child with myelomeningocele is unique, and not all will experience all of these symptoms. A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan based on individual circumstances.

References: [3] - Context result 3 [4] - Context result 5 [5] - Context result 8 [6] - Context result 7 [7] - Context result 8 [9] - Context result 13 [10] - Context result 11 [12] - Context result 12

Myelomeningocele, also known as spina bifida cystica, is a congenital defect that can be diagnosed through various diagnostic tests.

Prenatal Diagnosis

• Prenatal screening tests, such as the maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test, can detect myelomeningocele in utero [1].
• The MSAFP test measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein in the mother's blood, which is produced by the fetus. Elevated levels may indicate a problem like an open neural tube defect [2].

Postnatal Diagnosis

• After birth, a doctor can examine the infant's spine and bones in the back using an image scan such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT to confirm the diagnosis [3].
• An MRI scan is often recommended to assess the severity of spinal cord damage caused by spina bifida and determine whether your child has hydrocephalus—a condition where fluid accumulates in the brain [4].

Diagnostic Tests

• Blood tests can detect abnormal levels of alpha-fetoprotein, which may indicate a neural tube defect like myelomeningocele [5].
• Amniocentesis is recommended for fetuses diagnosed with myelomeningocele to check for chromosomal problems [6].
• Ultrasound and MRI scans are used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition [7].

Additional Tests

• If screening tests suggest spina bifida, most women then have an MRI scan of the unborn baby to confirm the diagnosis [8].
• An amniocentesis is recommended for fetuses diagnosed with myelomeningocele to check for chromosomal problems and assess the severity of the condition [9].

In summary, diagnostic tests for myelomeningocele include prenatal screening tests like MSAFP, postnatal imaging scans such as MRI or CT, blood tests, amniocentesis, and ultrasound. These tests can confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.

References:

[1] Context 2 [2] Context 2 [3] Context 4 [4] Context 5 [5] Context 6 [6] Context 9 [7] Context 8 [8] Context 8 [9] Context 9

Medications Used in Myelomeningocele

Myelomeningocele, a type of spina bifida, often requires medication to manage associated conditions. The most frequently used medications are for treating neurogenic bladder dysfunction.

• Anti-seizure medications: Some anti-seizure medications may be prescribed to prevent seizures in babies with myelomeningocele [1].
• Antibiotics: In the United States, antibiotics are a standard part of care for spina bifida and myelomeningocele, often used to treat infections [8].

While these medications can help manage symptoms, it's essential to note that surgery is typically required to repair the opening in the spine. The specific treatment plan will depend on the individual case and the affected areas of the body.

Treatment Goals

The primary goal of medication treatment for myelomeningocele is to address associated conditions, such as neurogenic bladder dysfunction or seizures. Medications can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life, but they do not cure the condition itself.

References:

[1] Oct 30, 2024 — The medications used most frequently in myelomeningocele are for treatment of neurogenic bladder dysfunction. [8] Oct 30, 2024 — In the United States, antibiotics, sac closure, and ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement are the standard of care for spina bifida and are often used to treat infections.

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