Introduction:

Spinal cord is a bundle of nerves, and it carries signals back and forth between the body and the brain. It is protected by vertebrae (solid structure made up of bones) (1). Normally, neural tubes develop into the baby’s brain and spinal cord, and they form and close during the first month of pregnancy. If neural tubes fail to develop or close properly, they lead to Spina Bifida which is considered as neural tube defects (NTDs). This can cause problems in the spinal cord and the bones of the spine. Spina Bifida have several forms that depend on its severity. The causes exactly are unknown, but several things can increase the risk of having Spina Bifida (2). Although this disease is known to be an incurable condition, developing a better understanding of the nature of Spina Bifida, its diagnosing, causes, and symptoms have contributed to the process of treating Spina Bifida.

Definition: The term Spina Bifida comes from Latin and literally means "split" or "open" spine. Additionally, Spina Bifida is happening while the spine and the spinal cord are developing. The spinal
Scientists suspect that there are genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors that are involved in causing the disease. Sometimes the deficient intake of a common vitamin B and folic acid in the mother’s diet is a key factor in causing Spina Bifida. However, genes are a major role in causing Spina Bifida. For example, mostly, women who suffer from obesity and diabetes can have children with Spina Bifida. Second, environment can take place in causing Spina Bifida too. For instance, mothers who get exposed to hot tub or sauna in their early pregnancy are more likely to have children with Spina Bifida. Finally, nutrition also enacts in causing Spina Bifida. For example, taking some anti-seizure medications during pregnancy can cause Spina Bifida. However, researchers do not know how these factors can affect the risk of Spina Bifida