Lipomyelomeningocele: a case report
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62305/biosana.v5i3.612Keywords:
lipomyelomenigocele; closed spinal dysraphism; spinal ultrasound; magnetic resonance imaging.Abstract
Lipomyelomeningocele is a type of closed spinal dysraphism characterized by a subcutaneous lipoma associated with herniation of neural tissue, cerebrospinal fluid, and meninges through a vertebral defect. Its origin lies in a disturbance of primary neurulation during embryonic development. Although it is a rare malformation, it can lead to severe neurological complications due to tethering of the spinal cord. It is frequently associated with other congenital anomalies such as scoliosis, sacral dysgenesis, and genitourinary malformations. Diagnosis is based on clinical and imaging findings, with ultrasound serving as a screening tool in neonates and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) being the gold standard due to its superior ability to characterize the spinal cord and associated anomalies. Early and appropriate evaluation improves prognosis and facilitates surgical planning.
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