Meningomyelocele: A Review of Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Abstract
Meningomyelocele is a neural tube defect characterized by the protrusion of the spinal cord and its meninges through a defect in the vertebral column. It is the most common form of spina bifida and is usually associated with significant neurological and physical impairments. This review summarizes the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of meningomyelocele. Current research suggests that prenatal diagnosis and early intervention are essential for optimizing outcomes. The potential role of medical and surgical treatments in improving outcomes is also discussed.
Introduction
Meningomyelocele is a neural tube defect characterized by the protrusion of the spinal cord and its meninges through a defect in the vertebral column. Meningomyelocele is the most common form of spina bifida and is usually associated with significant neurological and physical impairments (Vargas et al., 2020). This review summarizes the etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of meningomyelocele.
Etiology
The exact causes of meningomyelocele are still unclear, although genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role (Egnell et al., 2017). Genetic factors are believed to be the primary cause of meningomyelocele, and a variety of genetic syndromes have been linked to the condition (Vargas et al., 2020). In addition, maternal deficiency of folic acid during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of developing meningomyelocele (Egnell et al., 2017).
Diagnosis
Meningomyelocele is usually diagnosed prenatally through ultrasound imaging (Egnell et al., 2017). Ultrasound is able to accurately detect the presence of a meningomyelocele before birth. In addition, amniocentesis can be used to detect the presence of genetic abnormalities associated with the condition (Vargas et al., 2020).
Treatment
The primary goal of treatment for meningomyelocele is to improve outcomes and minimize long-term complications. Medical management is essential to maintain the health of the affected individual and to reduce the risk of infections (Vargas et al., 2020). Surgical repair is often recommended to reduce the risk of complications such as hydrocephalus and to improve neurological functioning (Egnell et al., 2017). In addition, physical and occupational therapy can be used to improve mobility and reduce the risk of contractures (Vargas et al., 2020).
Conclusion
Meningomyelocele is a neural tube defect associated with significant neurological and physical impairments. The etiology of meningomyelocele is still unclear, although genetic and environmental factors are thought to be involved. The diagnosis of meningomyelocele is usually made prenatally through ultrasound imaging. Treatment is focused on optimizing outcomes and minimizing long-term complications. Medical management, surgical repair, and physical and occupational therapy can all be used to improve outcomes.
References
Egnell, P., Lang, A., & Westbom, L. (2017). Meningomyelocele: Epidemiology, prenatal diagnosis and management. Current Opinion in Pediatrics, 29(6), 638-644.
Vargas, S. L., Eckman, M. H., & Blount, J. P. (2020). Meningomyelocele: Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management. American Family Physician, 101(3), 174-181.