Cervicothoracic Limited Dorsal Myeloschisis: An Under- Recognized Potential Mimicker

Abstract

Limited dorsal myeloschisis results from incomplete disjunction during spinal cord development, leading to a persistent stalk between skin and spinal cord. Neurological symptoms in limited dorsal myeloschisis patients vary depending on the level of spinal cord involvement. Diagnosis typically relies on cutaneous markers and magnetic resonance imaging findings, which can differentiate limited dorsal myeloschisis from other conditions like dermal sinus or myelomeningocele. Sometimes medullary edema/local pre syrinx potentially caused by this entity can exhibit a pseudo tumoral aspect and mimic other differential diagnoses such as tumors and inflammatory/ demyelinating conditions. Surgical intervention involves resection of the stalk to alleviate tethering effects, with newer techniques aimed at minimizing invasive procedures while ensuring complete removal of the stalk.