Spontaneous regression of a terminal myelocystocele and associated syringomyelia: a case report
Andrew J Durnford1, Roopa Mulik, Andrew D Kay
1School of Medicine, Birmingham University, Vincent Drive, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
Insights
Terminal myelocystocele, a rare spinal condition, and its associated syrinx can spontaneously regress. This finding suggests that early surgical intervention may not always be necessary for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Neurology
- Developmental Biology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Terminal myelocystocele is a rare congenital spinal dysraphism.
- It involves cystic dilatation of the terminal cord's central canal.
- Often presents as a dorsal skin-covered mass, with surgical repair historically recommended.
Observation:
- A case study of a 4-year-old girl with terminal myelocystocele and syrinx is presented.
- Both conditions were monitored using magnetic resonance imaging.
- Spontaneous regression of the myelocystocele and syrinx was observed.
Findings:
- Terminal myelocystocele can exhibit spontaneous regression.
- Associated syringomyelia may also resolve without intervention.
- This challenges the standard recommendation for immediate surgical repair.
Implications:
- The natural history of terminal myelocystocele may include spontaneous resolution.
- Observation may be a viable alternative to immediate surgical repair in select cases.
- Further research is warranted to identify predictors for spontaneous regression.
Introduction:
Terminal myelocystocele is a rare form of spinal dysraphism characterised by cystic dilatation of the central canal of a low-lying terminal cord. Typical presentation is a skin-covered dorsal mass; early surgical repair has been recommended.
Case Report:
We present the case of a 4-year-old girl with a terminal myelocystocele and syrinx, which were both observed to spontaneously regress on subsequent magnetic resonance imaging.
Conclusion:
Terminal myelocystocele and its associated syrinx may resolve spontaneously. Early surgical repair may not always be necessary.