Epidemiology of Spina Bifida Cystica in Sohag: A Hospital-Based Study

• Main Authors: Ahmed Saro, Magda Ali, Roshdy Elkhayat
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Egyptian spine association 2015-10-01
• Series: Egyptian Spine Journal
• Subjects: Spina bifida; meningomyelocele; congenital anomalies; neural tube defects
• Online Access: http://www.esj.journals.ekb.eg/article_3978.html

Background Data: Neural tube defects (NTDs) include a wide variety of pathologies due to the intrauterine failure of neural tube closure. It includes anencephaly which is incompatible with life, encephalocele and myelomeningocele and meningocele. Myelomeningocele (MMC) the commonest and worst form in which the spinal cord and the meninges protrude from a defect in the spine. Meningocele is a less severe form in which only the meninges protrude into a sac. MMC represents a major health problem with a higher incidence in developing countries. It is one of the death associated diseases in infants and early childhood. It compromises the patient’s life quality and causes lifelong disabilities. Other congenital anomalies might be associated with the SB like congenital hydrocephalus, congenital talipus, and congenital heart diseases. Purpose: To study patients’ epidemiological data and possible risk factors in our locality. Study Design: A cohort descriptive retrospective clinical case study. Patients and Method: We reported 122 babies with spina bifida cystica came to neurosurgery clinic in Sohag university hospital between January 2009 and January 2015. We collect their epidemiological data and ask their parents about the possible factors. Results: In 122 patients with spina bifida cystica, the age range varies from 1 day to 8 months (the mean age was 2 months). The study involved 66 males (54%) and 56 females (46%). 71 cases had associated hydrocephalus (58%), 33 had congenital talipus deformity (27%) and 26 cases had associated cardiovascular disease (21%). Seventy three percent of cases (N=89) came from rural area. Conclusion: spina bifida cystica is a common disease in Sohag government. Both sexes affected equally. Incidence was higher in rural areas, mothers who took medication in the first trimester, those who were not on regular folate intake and in families who had a previous baby with spinabifida cystica. (2015ESJ107)