A Case Report on Lumbosacral Myelomeningocele with Global Developmental Delay

Myelomeningocele, also known as open spina bifida, is a congenital disorder in which a child's spinal canal and backbone fail to close properly before birth. Myelomeningocele develops within the first four weeks of pregnancy. Though the etiology is multifactorial, most cases are preventable with proper maternal diet and folic acid intake during pregnancy. This report describes a 4-year-old boy child, who was being presented with lumbosacral myelomeningocele and delayed attainment of developmental milestones since birth. Upon examination, non-reducible, non-compressible, and non-trans illuminant swelling was present over the lumbosacral region. Notably, the 1st and 8th cranial nerves could not be assessed. The condition was corrected by lumbosacral myelomeningocele repair and was managed conservatively. Treatment options range from fetal surgery to selective neonatal treatment. Folic acid supplementation significantly mitigates the risk of myelomeningocele by providing proper neural tube closure. This case report shows the importance of an early diagnosis and initiating timely medical and surgical management to prevent subsequent complications and neurological damage.