Spina bifida occulta

Abstract

Spina bifida occulta (SBO) is a malformation of the spinal cord and its surrounding structures. It is caused by the failure of neurulation and is defined as a condition characterized by the absence of cerebrospinal fluid leakage without skin defects; therefore, it is also known as closed spinal dysraphism. Here we have reviewed the embryology-based pathogenesis, outlined clinical pictures of whole SBO including our clinical data, and mentioned individual disease states. SBO comprises various pathological conditions related to the type of failure during notochord formation and primary and secondary neurulations. Neurological disorders are caused by spinal cord tethering, mass effect, and dysplasia of the nerve tissue. Comorbid cutaneous abnormalities and lower intestinal and urogenital anomalies are initial signs for the diagnosis of SBO. Surgery for tethered spinal cord and mass effect, except for dysplasia of the nerve tissue, possibly help in the improvement or stabilization of symptoms. Surgery is generally recommended in symptomatic SBO cases and in asymptomatic SBO cases in children; however, prophylactic surgery is controversial. Comprehensive care and postoperative follow–up are necessary over a prolonged period.