infant birth defect

My newborn (one month old on the 15th)granddaughter was born with three holes at the base of her spine between the buttocks.  These went undetected until two weeks ago. At which time we were told that she just hadn't developed completely because she delivered two weeks early. She now has blood in stool as well.  The doctors don't seem very concerned with these issues.  My daughter-in-law was told to watch for infection and doc suggested a change of formula for constipation and stomach upset.  Should we be seeking more expert care?  What could be wrong with the baby ? Are these symptoms of Spina Bifida ?  Would appreciate any advice.

Thank you, Suze

[Dr Santos]

How are you? How is your grand daughter? The appearance and symptoms of a child who is born with spina bifida depend on how severe the condition is.
If the spina bifida is mild, there may be no physical indication of the condition. In some cases a birthmark, cleft, or splitlike opening in the back part of the backbones may form. In severe cases, however, there usually is a fluid-filled swelling on the baby's spine. In the most severe cases, tissues and nerves from the spinal cord are exposed on the child's back. Treatment for the mild form of spina bifida usually requires no treatment at all. Closing the opening in the spinal cord and covering the cord with muscles and skin taken from either side of the back may be done for those with open defects. This link may be of help: http://www.emedicinehealth.com/spina_bifida/article_em.htm#Spina%20Bifida%20Overview

Take care and keep us posted.

[suze301]

Dear Dr. Santos:
Thank you for your swift reply. Your answer did make me feel somewhat better.  Alana must have a mild case if she in fact has the condition at all.  There are no protrusions or sacs that I'm aware of.  I will talk with mom in greater detail today and keep you posted.

Many Thanks :)
Sincerely,
Suze301

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Most of the cases of blood in stool of babies resolve on their own.

Here are some of the causes of blood in stools in infants like slight anal tear or fissure due to straining while passing motions, intestinal infection, food allergies, if a mother has a cracked nipple which bleeds and the infect ingests some blood from the mother herself.

Please make sure the child is not constipated, and make sure to burp after every feed.
Hopefully the bleeding will stop soon. Do let me know if you need any more information. Take care!