Occulta is often undetected at birth and is known as the hidden form of spina bifida. It is a mild form of spina bifida and for many of those affectedand sbo does not cause any health issues. Often people become aware that they have sbo after having a back x-ray for an unrelated problem, back pain or incontinence becomes an issue. Your sbo was not diagnosed at birth, because it wasn't visually apparent like other forms of spina bifida where a baby is born with a "sac" or opening on the spine, however, for many diagnosed with sbo, even later in life there can be associated health problems. They usually arise because the spinal cord becomes tethered to the backbone. Often a person who is previously symptomless may experience difficulties during the rapid growth of adolescence. This is because the nerves of the spinal cord are stretched and the symptoms may become progressively worse. A person may also experience weakness and reduced sensation of the legs, change in hand function, bladder infections and incontinence and bowel problems.
Now that you have been diagnosed with sbo, it is important to get a referral to a neurosurgeon and have a complete neurological assessment done, which should include an MRI or CT Scan to give a clear picture of your brain, spinal column and nerves so they can advise the most appropriate treatments.
85% of individuals with spina bifida also have hydrocephalus, which is usually present at birth. However, hydrocephalus can develop at any stage of life and acquired hydrocephalus may occur as a result of a head injury, meningitis, brain tumours and unknown causes.
For more information about spina bifida occulta complications, please contact the Association 800-387-1575 or
provincial@sbhao.on.ca to receive an information package.