Composite split cord malformation associated with a dermal sinus tract, dermoid cyst, and epidural abscess: a case report and review of literature

Saad Akhtar Khan, Memon Medical Institute Hospital, Pakistan
Abdul Azeem, Aga Khan University
Muhammad Shahzad Shamim, Aga Khan University
Muhammad Zubair Tahir, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK

Abstract

Abstract

BACKGROUND:

Split cord malformation (SCM) is typically present at a single level but rarely, may be present at multiple levels in the spinal cord and can be associated with a wide array of lesions such as myelomeningoceles, lipomas, teratomas, and dermal sinus tracts (DSTs).

CASE DESCRIPTION:

We describe a case of a 15-month-old female child who presented with high-grade fever and progressive motor weakness in the lower limbs. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed the presence of SCM along with an epidural abscess, DST, and dermoid cyst. The child underwent surgery for excision of DST along with removal of the dermoid cyst and drainage of epiduralabscess. The postoperative course was uneventful. Elective repair of the SCM was performed 4 weeks later. The postoperative course was uneventful again.

CONCLUSION:

To the best of our knowledge, the combination of a composite SCM with a DST and dermoid cyst with associatedepidural abscess has rarely been reported in literature.