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Sonography for detection of spinal dermal sinus tracts
Kuang-Lin Lin1, Huei-Shyong Wang, Ming-Liang Chou
1Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Children's Hospital at Linkou, Medical College of Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan, Republic of China.
Summary
Early spinal sonography can detect patent dermal sinus tracts and associated anomalies, enabling prophylactic treatment. This early intervention in spinal dysraphism prevents serious complications like meningitis and neurological deficits.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Medical Imaging
- Spinal Surgery
Background:
- Spinal dysraphism can lead to meningitis via infection through patent dermal sinus tracts.
- Cutaneous lesions are the primary indicator of these underlying spinal abnormalities.
- Understanding the link between skin findings and spinal issues is crucial for timely intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between cutaneous lesions, patent dermal sinus tracts, and spinal dysraphism.
- To identify associated intraspinal anomalies and complications.
- To evaluate the efficacy of early detection and treatment.
Main Methods:
- Studied five patients with spinal patent dermal sinus tracts.
- Utilized 7-MHz linear transducer sonography for spinal cord and subcutaneous imaging.
- Confirmed diagnoses and evaluated intraspinal conditions with spinal magnetic resonance imaging.
Main Results:
- Common anomalies included tethered cords (n=5), dermoid cysts (n=3), and lipomas (n=2).
- Central nervous system infections occurred in two patients.
- Surgical intervention before infection led to better outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Spinal sonography enables early detection of patent dermal sinus tracts and related anomalies.
- Prophylactic treatment, such as early surgical intervention, can prevent neurological deficits.
- Timely diagnosis through sonography is key for improved patient outcomes.