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Imaging in spine and spinal cord malformations
Andrea Rossi1, Roberta Biancheri, Armando Cama
1Department of Neuroradiology, G. Gaslini Children's Research Hospital, Largo G. Gaslini 5, I-16147 Genova, Italy. a.rossi@panet.it
European Journal of Radiology
|April 15, 2004
Summary
Spinal dysraphisms are birth defects of the spine and spinal cord. This classification system helps diagnose various types, including open and closed spinal dysraphisms, aiding in diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Embryology
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Spinal and spinal cord malformations are termed spinal dysraphisms.
- These defects originate during early embryonic development (weeks 2-6).
- Spinal dysraphisms are broadly classified into open (OSDs) and closed (CSDs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a classification scheme for spinal dysraphisms.
- To aid in the diagnosis of these complex congenital abnormalities.
Main Methods:
- Categorization based on embryological origin and clinical presentation.
- Distinguishing between open spinal dysraphisms (OSDs) and closed spinal dysraphisms (CSDs).
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred diagnostic modality.
Main Results:
- OSDs include myelomeningocele, myelocele, and hemimyelo(meningo)cele.
- CSDs are categorized by the presence or absence of subcutaneous masses.
- CSDs with mass include lipomyelocele and meningocele; CSDs without mass include dermal sinuses and diastematomyelia.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive classification aids in understanding spinal dysraphisms.
- Accurate diagnosis relies on differentiating between OSDs and CSDs.
- MRI is crucial for imaging and diagnosing these conditions.