Spina Bifida - What it is and where it comes from
Spina bifida is a neural tube defect, a type of birth defect. The neural tube is the part of the embryo that develops into the brain and spinal cord. Spina bifida causes the neural tube to develop incompletely or close improperly which can lead to defects in the spinal cord and bones in the spine. There are different extents to which spina bifida can effect patients.
What causes spina bifida is still unclear as of right now. Similar to other diseases, it is likely to be a combination of genetic and environmental risk factors. Spina bifida has been linked to folic acid deficiency during the pregnancy. Folic acid cannot be synthesized and must be supplied through the diet. It helps to protect against a number of congenital malformations. |
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