Seven distinct coexistent cranial and spinal anomalies

Emmez H, Tokgoz N, Dogulu F, Yilmaz MB, Kale A, Baykaner MK. Seven distinct coexistent cranial and spinal anomalies. Pediatric Neurosurgery. 2006;42(5):316-9.

Existence of multiple cranial and spinal anomalies in spina bifida is well known; however, coexistence of seven different severe anomalies is extremely rare. The location of the anomalies, the patient's age and presentation are other interesting aspects of the presented case.

CASE REPORT: A 1-year-old girl with an enlarged head and big, infected lumbosacral myelomeningocele (MMC) was admitted to the emergency department in a comatose state. Further investigations revealed hydrocephalus, Chiari malformation, syringohydromyelia, split cord malformation, dermal sinus tract, lumbosacral MMC, and tethered cord. Unfortunately, the patient died 3 days after admission because of meningitis and sepsis.

DISCUSSION: Coexistence of seven different craniospinal anomalies is extremely unusual. Further investigations with magnetic resonance imaging for associated anomalies, early shunt placement and MMC repair are required to prevent this life-threatening condition in spina bifida.

PMID: 16902346