Spina Bifida

Abstract: An 8 page paper discussing the birth defect, its causes and treatment. Spina bifida is a birth defect of decreasing incidence in the United States, largely resulting from better nutritional information among women of childbearing age. It can have nearly no symptoms in its mildest forms, but severe cases can manifest paralysis and mental retardation. A high percentage of cases could be avoided with adequate levels of folic acid, and the nutrient has become a standard food additive in the US. Genetic predisposition and some drugs also can play a role. The only known effective treatment is that of surgery; surgeons successfully performed an in utero covering of the neural tube so that exposure to amniotic fluid would not further damage it. The baby was born with normal leg movement only a few weeks later. Bibliography lists 14 sources.

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Catagory: Disease, Treatment, & Epidemiology

Subcatagory: Medicine, Medical Issues, & Pharmacy

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