Congenital spinal cord anomalies: a pictorial review

Area of Science:

• Developmental biology
• Neurology
• Radiology

Background:

• Congenital spinal anomalies, or spinal dysraphism, result from aberrations during embryonic development.
• These conditions range from obvious birth defects to subtle abnormalities detected via imaging for neurological signs.
• Congenital spinal tumors are related, presenting as external masses or internal imaging findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review common and rare spinal canal and cord anomalies encountered over a 3-year period.
• To highlight the importance of a systematic approach in diagnosing spinal dysraphism.
• To emphasize the role of radiological imaging in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of patient cases with spinal dysraphism and congenital spinal tumors.
• Analysis of imaging modalities used, including plain radiographs, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Focus on anomalies identified in a tertiary care hospital setting.

Main Results:

• Spinal dysraphism encompasses a heterogeneous group of abnormalities with varied clinical presentations.
• Radiological imaging is crucial for diagnosis and postoperative evaluation.
• MRI is the primary imaging modality, with CT and plain radiographs having specific, limited roles.

Conclusions:

• A systematic diagnostic approach is essential for spinal dysraphism.
• Congenital spinal anomalies and tumors require careful radiological assessment.
• MRI is the imaging modality of choice for evaluating these complex conditions.