Megan Morrisey

Scientific and Common Name

Scientific name is Myelomeningocele Common name is Spina Bifida

Cause and Transmitted Spina Bifida is caused by the

failure of the babies spine to close properly during the first month of pregnancy

Genetic defect Low levels of folic acid before and during

pregnancy possibly partake in the cause Theory that viruses might play a role, since

there is a higher rate of this defect in newborns during winter months

Targeted Population

No specific targeted population, anyone can get it

1 out of 800 babies are affected To reduce changes, it is recommended

to take folic acid

Where and How

This condition can affect the entire length on the CNS, including the brain as well as the entire spine

Most cases have lots of brain abnormalities, resulting in hydrocephalus

Symptoms

Loss of bladder/bowel control Loss of sensation Possibly paralysis of legs Weakness in hips, legs, and feet Possible abnormalities in feet Hydrocephalus Meningitis UTI’s

Prognosis Most individuals live well into adulthood

depending on how bad their condition is Usually this condition can be surgically

corrected Problems occur later in life, as the individual

hits puberty-More loss of function-Orthopedic problems-Foot/ankle deformities-Dislocation of hips

Most individuals use a wheelchair

Vaccine or Treatment

There is currently no cure or vaccine for this disorder There are two common treatments

-Prenatal- Surgery is taken place between 19 and 25 weeks of pregnancy. The uterus is opened up to where the baby’s back is in sight and the sac is removed. The fetus and mother are then examined and followed up with weekly ultrasounds. There is a planned cesarean birth at 37 weeks.

-Postnatal- The same surgery is taken place but 24 to 48 hours after a cesarean birth at 37 weeks. A cesarean birth is planned incase a sac is present.

Prenatal treatment is proven to be the most beneficial though most dangerous

Jean Driscoll Born with Spina Bifida Grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin Began using her wheelchair in high school

and started playing wheelchair sports Recruited to play wheelchair basketball at

University of Illinois and later joined the track and field team

Competed in her first Paralympics in 1988 Supports programming for the disabled by

racing in the College Church’s annual fund raising race

Organizations The Spina Bifida Association Non-profit association that provides

information and referrals through a clearinghouse and number you can call

Promotes research into the causes, treatment and prevention of Spina Bifida

As well as conducts public awareness campaigns and encourages socialization and training for people with Spina Bifida

Resources Neurological institute of neurological disorders

and stroke. (2012). Retrieved from http://www.ninds.nih.gov/find_people/voluntary_orgs/volorg213.htm

David, Z. (2011, March 15). Pubmed health. Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002525/

Ucsf benioff childrens. (2011, June 1). Retrieved from http://www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org/conditions/spina_bifida/treatment.html