Spina bifida can be diagnosed during pregnancy through prenatal tests such as:
Ultrasound: Can show signs of spina bifida in the fetus. Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test: Measures the level of alpha-fetoprotein in the mother's blood, which can be higher if the baby has spina bifida. Amniocentesis: Involves taking a sample of the amniotic fluid to test for genetic conditions and neural tube defects.
After birth, the diagnosis can be confirmed through physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans.
