SHOULD WE IMAGE SACRAL DIMPLE/DEVIATION OF GLUTEAL FOLD

Spina bifida occulta is a common anomaly consisting of a midline defect of the vertebral bodies without protrusion of the spinal cord or meninges. Most patients are asymptomatic and lack neurologic signs, and the condition is usually of no consequence. Some consider the term spina bifida occulta to denote merely a posterior vertebral body fusion defect. This simple defect does not have an associated spinal cord malformation. Other clinically more significant forms of this closed spinal cord malformation are more correctly termed occult spinal dysraphism. In most of these cases, there are cutaneous manifestations such as a hemangioma, discoloration of the skin, pit, lump, dermal sinus, or hairy patch . A spine roentgenogram in simple spina bifida occulta shows a defect in closure of the posterior vertebral arches and laminae, typically involving L5 and S1; there is no abnormality of the meninges, spinal cord, or nerve roots. Occult spinal dysraphism is often associated with more significant developmental abnormalities of the spinal cord, including syringomyelia, diastematomyelia, and/or a tethered cord. A spine roentgenogram in these cases might show bone defects or may be normal. All cases of occult spinal dysraphism are best investigated with MRI . Initial screening in the neonate may include ultrasonography.

Spina Bifida Occulta (Occult Spinal Dysraphism)