![]() An AFP test might be part of a test called the “triple screen” that looks for neural tube defects and other issues. A high level of AFP might mean that the baby has spina bifida. This is a simple blood test that measures how much AFP has passed into the mother’s bloodstream from the baby. AFP – AFP stands for alpha-fetoprotein (sounds like: al-fa–fee-toe-pro-teen), a protein the unborn baby produces.Talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns you have about this prenatal testing. During Pregnancyĭuring pregnancy there are screening tests (prenatal tests) to check for spina bifida and other birth defects. Spina bifida occulta might not be diagnosed until late childhood or adulthood, or might never be diagnosed. Spina bifida can be diagnosed during pregnancy or after the baby is born. This type of spina bifida usually does not cause any disabilities. Many times, spina bifida occulta is not discovered until late childhood or adulthood. The spinal cord and the nerves usually are normal. With it, there is a small gap in the spine, but no opening or sac on the back. ![]() It is sometimes called “hidden” spina bifida. Spina bifida occulta is the mildest type of spina bifida. Spina Bifida Occulta (sounds like: o-cult-tuh hear how “occulta” sounds external icon ) This type of spina bifida can cause minor disabilities. There is usually little or no nerve damage. With meningocele a sac of fluid comes through an opening in the baby’s back. Meningocele (sounds like: ma-nin-jo-seal hear how “meningocele” sounds external icon )Īnother type of spina bifida is meningocele. This type of spina bifida causes moderate to severe disabilities, such as problems affecting how the person goes to the bathroom, loss of feeling in the person’s legs or feet, and not being able to move the legs. Part of the spinal cord and nerves are in this sac and are damaged. With this condition, a sac of fluid comes through an opening in the baby’s back. Myelomeningocele is the most serious type of spina bifida. When people talk about spina bifida, most often they are referring to myelomeningocele. Myelomeningocele (sounds like: my-low-ma-nin-jo-seal hear how “myelomeningocele” sounds external icon )
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