Consequences of spina bifida

The consequences of spina bifida depend on the amount of nerve fibers from the spinal cord that are affected. Spina bifida occulta usually occurs without symptoms and consequences. Only superficial changes of the skin above the affected area may occur (hairiness, darker skin, dermal sinus).

If nerve fibers are affected (in the case of spina bifida aperta), serious disabilities can sometimes occur. Since spina bifida aperta usually occurs on the lower back, it is mainly the legs that are affected by paralysis and sensory disturbances. Frequently, clubfeet occur.

Many children are not able to walk and are in wheelchairs. The paralyses can also cause a curvature of the spine (scoliosis). The bladder and rectum can also be affected, leading to urinary and fecal incontinence (no control over the collection of urine or stool).

Urinary incontinence is also usually accompanied by frequent urinary tract infections. If hydrocephalus is not treated, permanent damage to vision and hearing can result. Epilepsy and severe brain damage can also occur.

Inheritance with spina bifida

So far there is no clear evidence that spina bifida is inherited. However, it cannot be ruled out with absolute certainty that there are genetic factors that influence the disease. What is certain, however, is that a folic acid deficiency in pregnant women is associated with an increased risk of spina bifida. Similarly, certain drugs (such as the epilepsy drug valproate) increase the risk of developing spina bifida in the unborn child. In general, spina bifida is one of the most common malformations in children.

Life expectancy with spina bifida

People born with spina bifida occulta normally have a normal life expectancy. If a dermal sinus has not been recognized as extending to the meninges of the spinal cord, repeated meningitis may occur, which may damage the whole body and shorten life expectancy. In the case of spina bifida aperta, life expectancy is highly dependent on the extent of the incident.

In general, it can be said that people with spina bifida aperta are usually dependent on the help of others and on medical help and care for the rest of their lives. If this is optimal, an almost normal life expectancy is assumed. If serious consequences have already occurred in the early course, such as hydrocephalus with brain damage or repeated kidney inflammation with urinary incontinence, a lower life expectancy must be assumed. It is impossible to make a general prediction, so this question should be asked individually for each case. It can be summarized that the more severe the symptoms and limitations are, the lower the life expectancy in most cases.