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Meningocele with cervical dermoid sinus tract presenting with congenital mirror movement and recurrent meningitis

Fatih Serhat Erol1, Cahide Topsakal, M Faik Ozveren

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Firat University School of Medicine, Norosirurji Anabilim Dali, Elazig, Turkey. fserol@yahoo.com

Yonsei Medical Journal
|July 1, 2004
PubMed

Insights

This case report details a rare instance of a cervical meningocele and dermoid sinus in a teenage girl, which caused recurrent meningitis and mirror movements. Surgical intervention successfully treated these congenital abnormalities.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Neurosurgery
  • Pediatric Neurology

Background:

  • Cervical dermoid sinuses and meningoceles are rare congenital abnormalities.
  • Their coexistence with recurrent meningitis and mirror movements is unprecedented.

Observation:

  • A 14-year-old female presented with recurrent meningitis and a leaking cervical meningocele.
  • Imaging revealed spina bifida, dermoid sinus, and meningocele at C2.
  • She also exhibited mirror movements.

Findings:

  • Surgical removal of the dermoid sinus and meningocele sac, along with detachment of the tethered cord, was performed.
  • Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of dermoid sinus and meningocele.
  • The patient's symptoms resolved post-operatively.

Implications:

  • Cervical congenital abnormalities like dermoid sinuses and meningoceles can present with complex symptoms, including recurrent meningitis and mirror movements.
  • Neurosurgeons must consider the potential for associated neurological deficits and symptoms when managing these conditions.
  • This case highlights the importance of comprehensive evaluation and surgical intervention for rare congenital spinal anomalies.

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