The occult intrasacral meningocele

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Radiology
• Pathology

Background:

• Intrasacral meningocele is a rare condition involving cerebrospinal fluid collection within the sacrum.
• Occult presentations can delay diagnosis and treatment.
• Association with neurofibromas is uncommon but significant.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report three cases of occult intrasacral meningocele.
• To review the literature on intrasacral meningoceles.
• To discuss the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, radiological findings, and surgical treatment.

Main Methods:

• Case series reporting.
• Literature review.
• Discussion of diagnostic imaging (e.g., MRI, CT) and surgical interventions.

Main Results:

• Three cases of occult intrasacral meningocele were identified.
• One case presented with coexisting intrasacral and presacral neurofibroma.
• The study discusses the varied clinical and radiological features.

Conclusions:

• Occult intrasacral meningocele requires high clinical suspicion for timely diagnosis.
• Surgical management is typically indicated for symptomatic cases.
• Understanding the potential association with neurofibromas is crucial for comprehensive patient care.