spina bifida

[ bif-i-duh ]

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.

spina bifida

/ 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

spina bifida

/ 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.

spina bifida

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of spina bifida¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of spina bifida¹

New Latin; see spine , bifid

Example Sentences

Paralyzed from the waist down since birth because of spina bifida, this 32-year-old wheelchair track and field powerhouse already has 17 Paralympic medals, including six from Rio.

From Outside Online

Sleep is likewise said to be induced by mechanic pressure on the brain in the cases of spina bifida.

From Project Gutenberg

The liability to spina bifida is greatest in the human infant, through the stress thrown on the spine.

From Project Gutenberg

It rarely appears in children, unless it is associated with spina bifida.

From Project Gutenberg