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

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 epidural abscess. 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 associated epidural abscess has rarely been reported in literature.

Historical Perspective of Split Cord Malformations: A Tale of Two Cords

“…type 1 and type 2 SCM. Type 1 SCM refers to 2 hemicords, each enclosed in its own dural sheath and separated by a rigid, osseous median septum [24,25,26]. Type 2 SCM consists of 2 hemicords within a single dural sheath separated by a non-rigid, fibrous median septum or bony spur.…”