Spina bifida occulta is a term used to describe a congenital condition that affects the spinal column. It is a type of spina bifida, which is characterized by the incomplete closure of the neural tube during fetal development. Specifically, spina bifida occulta refers to a milder form of the condition that does not typically manifest with visible symptoms and may go unnoticed throughout a person's life.
The term "occulta" comes from Latin and means "hidden." In spina bifida occulta, the spinal vertebrae fail to fully close, resulting in a small opening in the bones of the spine. However, unlike other types of spina bifida, the opening is covered by skin, concealing the underlying defect.
Although this condition is typically asymptomatic and does not cause any noticeable problems, it may occasionally result in mild spinal cord or nerve-related issues. These can include minor back pain, muscle weakness, numbness or tingling in the legs, or difficulty with bowel and bladder control. Despite these potential complications, most individuals with spina bifida occulta lead normal, healthy lives without requiring medical intervention.
The condition is usually detected incidentally during an X-ray or other medical imaging tests performed for unrelated reasons. It is important to note that spina bifida occulta does not typically progress or worsen over time. However, it is essential for individuals with this condition to be aware of its presence, as it may influence decisions when undergoing certain medical procedures, such as spinal surgery or spinal anesthesia.
