Meningocele manqué: a comprehensive review of this enigmatic finding in occult spinal dysraphism

Cameron Schmidt1, Ellie Bryant2, Joe Iwanaga2

  • 1Seattle Science Foundation, 550 17th Ave., James Tower, Suite 600, Seattle, WA, 98122, USA. cameronkurtschmidt@gmail.com.

Insights

Meningocele manqué (MM) describes intradural bands tethering neural structures. This review examines the evolving classification and treatment of these disorders, clarifying remaining cases.

Area of Science:

  • Neurosurgery
  • Developmental Biology
  • Neuropathology

Background:

  • Meningocele manqué (MM) was historically used for diverse intradural tethering findings.
  • Recent reclassifications separate embryologically distinct disorders previously under the MM umbrella.
  • A subset of intradural tethering disorders still lacks a definitive classification beyond MM.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively review the literature on meningocele manqué (MM).
  • To discuss the embryological origins, clinical presentation, and diagnostic imaging of MM.
  • To explore alternative classification systems and current treatment strategies for MM.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review of studies on meningocele manqué.
  • Analysis of embryological development related to spinal cord tethering.
  • Evaluation of clinical, radiographic, and surgical data from reported cases.

Main Results:

  • The term MM has encompassed a heterogeneous group of intradural tethering disorders.
  • Embryological distinctions have led to reclassification of some conditions previously termed MM.
  • A core group of intradural tethering disorders remains under the MM classification pending further differentiation.

Conclusions:

  • The historical term meningocele manqué (MM) requires careful consideration due to evolving classifications.
  • Understanding the embryological basis is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management.
  • Further research is needed to refine the classification and optimize treatment for persistent intradural tethering disorders.