Atypical Variants of Spinal Dysraphism: A Case Series

Abstract

The aim of this study is to present and discuss atypical instances of spina bifida (SB) within a Nigerian paediatric cohort, highlighting their distinctive clinicoradiological features. Additionally, a brief literature review is provided to contextualise these congenital anomalies. This series comprises eight rare cases of SB managed in a Nigerian neurosurgical facility. Additionally, a brief literature review is provided to contextualise these congenital anomalies. This case series comprises eight rare cases of SB managed in a Nigerian neurosurgical facility. Amongst these, four cases exhibited segmental spinal dysgenesis (SSD; one thoracolumbar, one lumbar, and two sacral). Each of these cases demonstrated diverse associated musculoskeletal, cutaneous, and perineal anomalies, accompanied by varying degrees of neurological dysfunction. Other cases included lipomyelomeningocele (LMMC), human tail (HT), membranous meningocele, and myeloschisis (MSS). Autonomic dysfunction was a common feature in all of the cases, whilst two of the patients presented with congenital kyphotic spinal deformity. Lower limb anomalies varied, including congenital talipes equinovarus deformity, pes planus, congenital calcaneovagus deformity, rocker bottom feet, clinodactyly, and tetrapolydactyly. Remarkably, none of the patients exhibited clinical features indicative of hydrocephalus. SSD, LMMC, HT, membranous meningocele, and MSS represent atypical forms of SB in the Nigerian paediatric population. Early neuroimaging of patients with suspected spinal dysraphism is crucial, as it may reveal a spectrum of diverse vertebral anomalies associated with this neurological condition within the African population.