bifida

Bifida is a term used in medical terminology to denote a split or cleft in a structure. It is most commonly encountered in spina bifida, a neural tube defect characterized by incomplete fusion of the vertebral arch surrounding the spinal cord. Spina bifida is typically categorized into occulta, meningocele, and myelomeningocele. Occulta involves a small defect in one or more vertebrae with no herniation of spinal tissue and is often asymptomatic. Meningocele features the herniation of the meninges through the vertebral defect, with the spinal cord usually in place. Myelomeningocele is the most severe form, with protrusion of meninges and spinal cord or nerve roots, often accompanied by neurological impairment, hydrocephalus, and orthopedic problems.

Causes are multifactorial, with prenatal folate status playing a major role; genetics, environmental factors, and maternal health contribute. Diagnosis may occur before birth through maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein testing and ultrasound, or after birth based on physical findings and imaging.

Treatment ranges from surgical closure of the defect in newborns to multidisciplinary management, including neurosurgery, orthopedics, urology, rehabilitation, and ongoing monitoring. Some cases require fetal surgery during pregnancy.

Prevention includes adequate folic acid intake before conception and during early pregnancy. Bifida terminology also appears in other anatomical descriptions, such as bifid structures (for example, a bifid uvula), where "bifid" or "bifida" indicates a split into two parts.