Total sacral spina bifida occulta

Case contributed by Akos Jaray
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Longstanding right hip pain. To rule out osteoarthritis.

Patient Data

Age: 55 years
Gender: Female

Incidental finding of unfused posterior laminae of S1-S3 vertebrae.

Suspicion of unfused posterior laminae of the lower sacral segments as well.

3D volume CT reconstruction of the pelvis (study performed for other reasons) shows total sacral spina bifida occulta.

Case Discussion

Sacral spina bifida occulta is usually asymptomatic, but may be linked with a variety of conditions including posterior disc herniation, backache, enuresis and neurological abnormalities of the feet, and functional disorders of the lower urinary tract.  

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