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Published on: March 24, 2020
An unusual type of split cord malformation
Yusuf Izci1, Doga Gurkanlar, Engin Gönül
1Department of Neurosurgery, Gulhane Military Medical Academy, Ankara, Turkey. yusufizci@yahoo.com
Summary
This report details a rare case of split cord malformation (SCM) in a child, presenting with a unique combination of spinal abnormalities. The patient showed no signs of tethered cord syndrome and remains neurologically normal.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Spinal Cord Malformations
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Split cord malformation (SCM) is a rare congenital anomaly of the spinal cord.
- SCM can be associated with various neurological deficits and other spinal abnormalities.
- Early diagnosis and management are crucial for preventing long-term complications.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old girl presented with a capillary hemangioma in the lumbosacral region.
- Imaging revealed an unusual type of SCM, including Type II SCM at L1 and a dorsal bony septum at S2.
- The conus medullaris terminated at the L2 vertebral body without evidence of tethered cord syndrome.
Findings:
- This case represents a unique combination of SCM with a dorsal bony septum and capillary hemangioma, not previously reported in the literature.
- The absence of tethered cord syndrome in this patient is a significant finding.
- Neurological examination was unremarkable throughout the follow-up period.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of the spectrum of split cord malformation presentations.
- The findings suggest that not all SCM cases require surgical intervention, particularly when neurological compromise is absent.
- Further research into the embryological origins of such complex spinal malformations is warranted.
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