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Mal perforans and spina bifida occulta
Archives of Dermatology
|March 1, 1978
Abstract:
A 26-year-old man had mal perforans pedis as the principal manifestation of spina bifida occulta with an associated intradural lipoma. Two lumbosacral dimples and a tuft of hair overlying the spina bifida led to the diagnosis. We include a review of the causes of mal perforans and a review of spina bifida occulta and associated abnormalities.
Insights
Spina bifida occulta, a spinal condition, can manifest as mal perforans pedis, a foot ulcer. This case highlights the importance of recognizing subtle skin signs for early diagnosis of associated spinal abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Dermatology
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Spina bifida occulta is a congenital vertebral anomaly often asymptomatic.
- Intradural lipomas are benign tumors associated with spinal dysraphism.
- Mal perforans pedis is a neuropathic ulcer typically seen in diabetes.
Observation:
- A 26-year-old male presented with a chronic foot ulcer (mal perforans pedis).
- Physical examination revealed two lumbosacral dimples and a sacral hair tuft.
- These cutaneous findings indicated an underlying spinal abnormality.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with spina bifida occulta.
- An associated intradural lipoma was identified.
- Mal perforans pedis was the primary clinical manifestation of these spinal defects.
Implications:
- This case underscores the significance of cutaneous markers in diagnosing spinal dysraphism.
- Early recognition of subtle signs can prevent complications like neuropathic ulcers.
- Understanding the association between spina bifida occulta, lipomas, and mal perforans is crucial for comprehensive patient care.