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Mirror movement associated with neural tube defects
Yasir Andrabi1, Farideh Nejat, Mostafa El Khashab
1Department of Neurosurgery.
Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment
|April 2, 2009
Summary
Mirror movements are rarely associated with neural tube defects like cervical myelomeningocele and cranial dermal sinus. This study explores the pathophysiology of this rare neurological condition in two pediatric cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Developmental Biology
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
Background:
- Mirror movements, involuntary symmetrical movements in contralateral limbs, are uncommon.
- Their association with specific neural tube defects (NTDs) is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- Two pediatric cases presenting with mirror movements are detailed.
- Case 1: A 3-year-old boy with a history of cervical myelomeningocele repair exhibited bilateral mirror movements.
- Case 2: A 7-year-old boy with a midline dermoid tumor and dermal sinus showed mirror movements in his upper extremities.
Findings:
- The study proposes a link between mirror movements and congenital abnormalities in the cervical spinal cord and cervicomedullary junction.
- These abnormalities are associated with gross structural anomalies in the affected spinal cord regions.
Implications:
- Understanding the pathophysiology of mirror movements in NTDs can aid in diagnosis and management.
- This research highlights the importance of investigating neurological symptoms in children with congenital spinal anomalies.
