Term used to describe a number of spinal conditions that are present at birth and develop as an embryo
Types of Spinal Dysraphism
Spina Bifida Occulta
Meningocele
Myelomeningocele
Spinal Cord Malformation
Dermal Sinus Tract
Spinal Lipoma
Tethered cord
dermoid and epidermoid cysts
Spinal Cord Malformation
Bony bridge develops between posterior arch of spinal canal and back of vertebral body at level of spinal cord
As child grows and spinal length increases, the spur will be pulled down the spinal cord as it rises up with respect to vertebral level
Spinal Lipoma
At birth a fat pad over spine but beneath skin may be seen
Tethered Cord
Spinal canal is growing longer than spinal cord, filum terminale has to extend to allow the cord to go up the spinal canal to end at thoracic/lumbar junction
If extension doesn't occur the cord will be pulled down and will sit lower inside the spinal canal
Dermoid and Epidermoid Cysts
May have cutaneous signs such as: a growth of extra skin, a thick patch of hair, pigment difference over area or sacral dimple
Dermoid, epidermoid cysts, tethered cord, and split cord malformation may have cutaneous signs
