Spina bifida is a congenital birth defect characterized by an underdeveloped neural tube. The neural tube is an embryonic structure that eventually develops into the baby’s brain, spinal cord, and their surrounding tissues. As a result, the spinal cord and backbone will develop severe, life-threatening defects. In this article we will discuss the signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, complications of spina bifida.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with spina bifida after taking Paroxetine or Depakote, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free confidential case evaluation. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.
Spina Bifida Signs & Symptoms
Spina bifida develops in three distinct forms:
- Spina bifida occulta: Considered the mildest variation of spina bifida, this form results in a small separation in one or more of the vertebrae of the spine. However, since there are usually no nerves involved, signs and symptoms are very minimal.
- Meningocele: In this rare form, the protective membranes around the spinal cord (meninges) push out through the opening in the vertebrae.
- Myelomeningocele: The most severe form of spina bifida. In myelomeningocele, the baby’s spinal canal remains open along several vertebrae in the lower or middle back. Because of this opening, both the membranes and the spinal cord protrude at birth, forming a sac on the baby’s back. Usually, however, tissues and nerves are exposed, making the baby prone to life-threatening infections.
Spina Bifida Causes
For the most part, doctors agree that the specific causes of spina bifida in children remain unknown. However, in July 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the birth defect risks caused by using the popular antidepressant Paroxetine during pregnancy. Furthermore, in 2010, a European study found that Depakote increases the risk of birth defects when taken as early as the first trimester of pregnancy.
Spina Bifida Risk Factors
Risk factors that may be associated with spina bifida in children include:
- Taking antidepressants while pregnant
- Taking epilepsy / migraine medication during pregnancy
- Race
- Family history of neural tube defects
- Folate deficiency
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Increased body temperature
For more information regarding these risk factors, please visit Mayoclinic.com.
Spina Bifida Complications
Complications of spina bifida include:
- Physical and neurological problems
- Hydrocephalus
- Meningitis
- Death
For more information regarding the complications of spina bifida, please visit Mayoclinic.com.
Do I have a Spina Bifida Lawsuit?
The trial lawyers at The Senators (Ret.) Firm, LLP have decades of experience navigating through complex legislative and regulatory issues and litigating high stakes cases all over the nation. Our law firm focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in spina bifida lawsuits. We are currently accepting new cases in all 50 states.
Again, if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with spina bifida after taking Paroxetine or Depakote, you should contact our lawyers immediately by clicking the link below or calling toll free 1-800-773-0849. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and we can help.