Spinal dysraphism associated with the cutaneous lumbosacral infantile hemangioma: a neuroradiological review

Abstract

Background: Spinal dysraphism is suspected in patients with midline abnormalities, especially in those with lumbosacral cutaneous markings. A recent prospective study demonstrated that isolated cutaneous infantile hemangiomas (IH) of the lumbosacral region have one of the highest risks (relative risk of 438) of associated spinal dysraphism.

Objective: The specific types of dysraphism and radiological findings associated with cutaneous IH of the lumbosacral region have not been described in detail, to the best of our knowledge. The aim of this multicenter study is to retrospectively classify types of spinal anomalies associated with the cutaneous lumbosacral IH.

Materials and methods: The radiological images of 20 cases of lumbosacral infantile hemangioma associated with spinal dysraphism were reviewed.

Results: Tethered cord was found in 60% of the 20 cases, spinal lipoma was present in 50% and 45% had intraspinal hemangiomas. Sinus tract was found in 40% of the children.

Conclusion: A range of spinal anomalies is associated with cutaneous lumbosacral infantile hemangiomas and MRI can be used to characterize these abnormalities.