spina bifida

American  

[bif-i-duh] / ˈbɪf ɪ də /

noun

Pathology.

1. a congenital neural tube defect in which part of the meninges or spinal cord protrudes through the spinal column, often resulting in neurological impairment.

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spina bifida British  

/ ˈspaɪnə ˈbɪfɪdə /

noun

1. a congenital condition in which the meninges of the spinal cord protrude through a gap in the backbone, sometimes causing enlargement of the skull (due to accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid) and paralysis

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spina bifida Scientific  

/ spī′nəbĭf′ĭ-də /

1. A congenital defect caused by incomplete formation of the neural tube, in which the vertebral column is not fully closed, resulting in protrusion of the meninges and sometimes the spinal cord. Damage to the exposed spinal cord can cause neurological abnormalites, including paralysis.

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spina bifida Cultural  

1. A congenital condition that involves an imperfectly closed spinal column, often resulting in neurological disorders.

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Etymology

Origin of spina bifida

1710–20; < New Latin, Latin: cloven backbone

Example Sentences

Reported problems include spina bifida, cleft palate, and a range of intellectual, communication, behavior and memory disorders.

From Science Daily

According to the Minnesota Star Tribune, the daughter, Hope, is in her 20s and was born with spina bifida, which her father previously cited as motivating him to get into state politics.

From BBC

April was born with spina bifida and was later diagnosed with tumours at the base of her spine which she says have left her in constant, debilitating pain.

From BBC

The 21-year-old was born with spina bifida - a spinal defect - and hydrocephalus, which is a neurological disorder that causes water to gather around her brain.

From BBC

The inquest heard Marina, who was from Ribbleton and had spina bifida, was unable to go to the toilet or remove her shoes.

From BBC