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Neurologically normal complete asymmetric lumbar spine duplication.
Lutfi Incesu1, T Nedim Karaismailoglu, Mustafa B Selcuk
1Department of Radiology, Ondokuz Mayis University, Medical School, Samsun, Turkey.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|May 14, 2004
Summary
Spine duplication, a rare severe split cord malformation, was observed in a 15-year-old girl. Despite significant spinal abnormalities, she remained neurologically intact with conservative treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Orthopedics
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Split cord malformation (SCM) encompasses a spectrum of congenital vertebral anomalies.
- Spine duplication represents an extremely rare and severe form of SCM.
- Understanding the embryological basis of SCM is crucial for diagnosing and managing these complex conditions.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old female presented with lower back pain.
- Radiographic, CT, and MR imaging revealed asymmetric lumbar spine duplication.
- Associated findings included spinal cord tethering secondary to a sacral filum lipoma.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited gross spinal abnormalities consistent with severe SCM.
- Despite the anatomical malformations, the patient was neurologically intact.
- Conservative management was initiated for the observed spinal condition.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for neurological preservation in severe spinal malformations.
- It underscores the importance of detailed imaging in diagnosing spinal anomalies.
- Conservative management may be a viable option for neurologically intact patients with spinal duplication.