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Neurenteric cyst: surgery and diagnostic imaging
E T Fernandes1, M D Custer, E M Burton
1Department of Surgery, LeBonheur Children's Medical Center, Memphis, TN.
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|January 1, 1991
Summary
This case report details a rare neurenteric cyst in a newborn causing respiratory distress. Surgical excision was successful, revealing spinal abnormalities characteristic of this congenital anomaly.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Developmental Biology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Neurenteric cysts are rare congenital anomalies, with fewer than 30 cases documented.
- These cysts arise from abnormal persistence of the neurenteric canal, connecting the foregut to the neural tube.
Observation:
- A newborn presented with respiratory distress due to a large intrathoracic neurenteric cyst identified via prenatal ultrasound.
- The cyst was surgically excised via thoracotomy, revealing adherence to the T1 vertebra and a communication with the jejunum through a diaphragmatic defect.
Findings:
- Postoperative MRI and CT scans identified an associated anterior meningocele and spinal cord tethering.
- This case is the second reported instance of a neurenteric cyst detected prenatally.
Implications:
- Prenatal diagnosis of neurenteric cysts is possible, allowing for timely intervention.
- Advanced imaging like MRI and CT are crucial for detecting associated intraspinal abnormalities.
- Surgical management can be effective, but long-term follow-up is necessary for spinal complications.