Terminal Myelocystocele

Abstract

Terminal myelocystocele (TMC) is a type of congenital spinal dysraphism characterized by a central canal dilatation and a protrusion through a posterior spina bifida. Researchers believe that TMC arises independently, rather than being inherited. The cause of this illness has been traced back to teratogens such hydantoin, loperamide hydrochloride, and retinoic acid. Because sacral protrusion is not mild, it is diagnosed soon after birth. Numerous symptomatic individuals present themselves at the time of diagnosis via routine or extensive neurologic, urological, or electrophysiological testing. TMC symptoms include uneven skin thickness and a mass in the lumbosacral region. It is characterized by the bigger spinal cord that develops dorsally out of the spinal canal and into the TMC. Renal scans, ultrasounds, and renal function tests are used for evaluating urinary tract health. Diagnosis of the lumbosacral mass can be aided by ultrasound imaging, which reveals the cystic growth and the meninges. Tests for TMC should be performed on fetuses with cystic growths over their lower backs, especially those that seem to be “cysts within cysts” on ultrasound. The defect can be surgically closed in cases of TMC. The majority of birth defects affecting the central nervous system are preventable with early detection and intervention, such as with folic acid and prenatal screening programs. Improvements in surgical methods have greatly increased both life expectancy and quality in recent decades.