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Histological structure of filum terminale in human fetuses

Cahit Kural1, Servet Guresci, Gulcin Guler Simsek

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Gulhane Military Medical Academy; and.

Journal of Neurosurgery. Pediatrics
|February 11, 2014
PubMed

Insights

The fetal filum terminale (FT) lacks elastic fibers, differing from adult structure. This histological difference may inform understanding of tethered cord syndrome (TCS) in children.

Area of Science:

  • Developmental biology
  • Histology
  • Pediatric neurology

Background:

  • The filum terminale (FT) structure is crucial for normal spinal development and implicated in pediatric tethered cord syndrome (TCS).
  • Existing histological data primarily focuses on adult FT, leaving fetal development understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the histological characteristics of the normal human fetal filum terminale.
  • To compare fetal FT histology with existing adult data.

Main Methods:

  • Histological examination of the filum terminale from 15 human fetuses (14-35 weeks gestation).
  • Analysis included adipose tissue, fibrous tissue, peripheral nerve, ganglion, ependymal cells, gliosis, elastic fibers, and collagen types I and III.

Main Results:

  • Fibrous tissue was prevalent (8 specimens).
  • Peripheral nerve elements were found in 73% of samples.
  • Type III collagen was detected in 80% of samples, but Type I collagen and elastic fibers were absent.

Conclusions:

  • The fetal filum terminale exhibits distinct histological features compared to the adult FT, notably lacking elastic fibers.
  • The absence of elasticity in the fetal FT during intrauterine life warrants further investigation.
  • Understanding these developmental differences is essential for elucidating the histological basis of pediatric TCS.
Abstract

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