Occult Spina Bifida in a Young Adult: A Case Report from Peru

Spina bifida is a congenital neural tube defect characterized by failed closure of the posterior vertebral arches and the neural tube. The timing of its detection depends on the severity and type of lesion. In its most severe form, open spina bifida (myelomeningocele), associated cranial anomalies can be identified prenatally by ultrasound. In contrast, occult spina bifida, a milder and often asymptomatic form, is typically not associated with significant cranial malformations and is most frequently diagnosed during the neonatal period or childhood.