Spina bifida
What is Spina bifida?
Spina bifida is termed a ‘Neural Tube Defect’ (NTD), and is a developmental defect in which the newborn baby has part of the spinal cord and its coverings exposed through a gap in the backbone.
The symptoms may include paralysis of the legs, incontinence, and leaning disabilities from the commonly associated brain defects.
Research
Yaliwal & Desai (2012) state the C677T MTHFR gene mutation is associated with a 2-4 fold increased in the risk of developing a NTD if the patient is homozygous (677TT). This risk is modulated by folate levels both ingested and then found within the body . The A1298C mutation is still linked to NTD, but will smaller relative risk.