How to Diagnose Spina Bifida Occulta Complications

Spina bifida occulta is a bony abnormality of the spine that affects 5 to 10 percent of the overall population. This abnormality can only be seen by X-ray. Nerves are commonly involved with this disorder. Scoliosis and kyphosis are the most common orthopedic complications associated with spina bifida occulta. Additional complications that could occur as a result of spina bifida include paralysis, hydrocephalus and bowel and bladder problems. Diagnosing these conditions requires that a physician carefully follow the care of the spina bifida patient.

Instructions

How to Diagnose Spina Bifida Occulta Complications

• 1

  Check for scoliosis, one of the most common complications associated with spina bifida occulta. Have the person bend forward and dangle his or her arms with the feet together and knees straight. A normal spine will be straight, whereas a spine with scoliosis will curve.

• 2

  Check for kyphosis, a condition in which the spine is bowed, forcing the person to stand with a hunched back. Ask the person to stand up straight with the shoulders back and head up. If the person is unable to do so, the individual may be suffering from kyphosis.

• 3

  Ask if the person has been experiencing headaches, vomiting, nausea or sleepiness. These are all symptoms of hydrocephalus, a complication of spina bifida that results in an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid around the brain and in the cranial cavity.

• 4

  Ask about bowel and bladder problems. Constipation, diarrhea and urinary urgency can all be complications of spina bifida.

• 5

  Consult a doctor if any of the symptoms mentioned in previous steps are present. A doctor will be able to provide testing and a firm diagnosis.