spina bifida occulta

spina bifida oc·cul·ta (-klt)

n.

Spina bifida with no protrusion of the meninges or spinal cord. Also called cryptomerorrhachischis.

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spina bifida occulta,

defective closure of the laminae of the vertebral column in the lumbosacral region without hernial protrusion of the spinal cord or meninges. The defect, which is quite common, occurs in about 5% of the population. It is identified externally by a skin depression or dimple, dark tufts of hair, telangiectasis, or soft subcutaneous lipomas at the site. Because the neural tube has closed, there are usually no neurologic impairments associated with the defect. However, any abnormal adhesion of the spinal cord to the area of the malformation may lead to neuromuscular disturbances, usually problems with gait and foot weakness and with the bowel and bladder sphincters. Compare spina bifida cystica.

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spina

pl. spinae [L.] spine; a slender process such as occurs on many bones.

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spina bifida

a developmental anomaly characterized by defective closure of the two halves of the vertebral arch through which the spinal cord and meninges may or may not protrude.

spina bifida cystica

spina bifida in which there is protrusion through the defect of a cystic swelling involving the meninges (meningocele), spinal cord (myelocele) or both (meningomyelocele).

spina bifida occulta

spina bifida in which there is a defect of the bony spinal canal without protrusion of the cord or meninges.

spina bifida ventralis

a defect of closure on the ventral surface of the bony spinal canal, often associated with defective development of the abdominal and thoracic viscera.

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spina bifida occulta

Neurology Spina bifida not manifest clinically. See Spina bifida.