Spina bifida may involve all of the following, EXCEPT: – meningomyelocele – paraplegia – hydrocephalus – meningocele – multiple sclerosis
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer: Multiple sclerosis
Explanation:
Spina bifida is a type of neural tube defect that occurs during fetal development when the spinal column fails to close completely. This condition can lead to a range of neurological impairments and physical disabilities. There are several types of spina bifida, and they may involve various complications. Let’s break down each option:
✅ Involved in Spina Bifida:
- Meningomyelocele:
- This is the most severe form of spina bifida.
- It involves a protrusion of the spinal cord and meninges (the protective membranes) through an opening in the spine.
- It often leads to paralysis, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and other neurological impairments.
- Paraplegia:
- Paraplegia refers to paralysis of the lower body, which can result from nerve damage associated with spina bifida.
- Especially in cases like meningomyelocele, the spinal nerves may be significantly affected, leading to motor deficits.
- Hydrocephalus:
- Many children with severe spina bifida (especially meningomyelocele) develop hydrocephalus.
- This is a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates in the brain, requiring treatment such as a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt.
- Meningocele:
- A less severe form of spina bifida.
- The meninges protrude through the spinal opening, but the spinal cord remains in place.
- It may not cause significant neurological problems, though surgery is often done to repair the defect.
❌ Not Involved in Spina Bifida:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS):
- MS is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath around nerves.
- It develops in adulthood and has no relation to congenital conditions like spina bifida.
- Therefore, MS is not associated with spina bifida and is the correct answer to this “EXCEPT” question.
Summary: While meningomyelocele, meningocele, paraplegia, and hydrocephalus are commonly linked with spina bifida, multiple sclerosis is not—it is a completely different neurological disorder.