Etymed
spina bifida
Definition
A congenital condition where the spine and spinal cord fail to develop properly, resulting in a gap or cleft in the vertebrae
Clinical context
A newborn presents with a visible sacral lesion containing neural tissue and cerebrospinal fluid. The infant exhibits lower extremity weakness and loss of sensation below the level of the lesion. Imaging reveals a bony defect in the sacral spine with meningeal protrusion. This constellation of findings is consistent with spina bifida occulta with associated myelomeningocele. The patient requires urgent surgical repair to prevent infection and preserve neurological function.
Mnemonic
SPINA BIFIDA - Saddle Pads In Neurological Ailments with Deficient Integrity