Cervical spine diastematomyelia in adulthood

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Cord Anatomy

Background:

• Cervical diastematomyelia is a rare congenital spinal cord malformation.
• It typically involves anomalies of the posterior vertebral elements.
• Adult presentations are uncommon and often misdiagnosed.

Observation:

• This report details a rare case of isolated cervical diastematomyelia in an adult.
• The initial clinical presentation mimicked a herniated cervical disc.
• Diagnostic challenges in differentiating from common pathologies are noted.

Findings:

• The case presented with symptoms suggestive of cervical radiculopathy or myelopathy.
• Advanced imaging confirmed the presence of a split spinal cord (diastastematomyelia) without associated posterior element anomalies.
• Surgical intervention was performed for definitive management.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering rare diagnoses in adult spinal conditions.
• Emphasizes the role of accurate diagnostic imaging in cervical spine pathologies.
• Provides insights into surgical strategies for isolated cervical diastematomyelia.