Abstract

Paediatric spinal dermoids are a subtype of cutaneous inclusion tumours of the spine consisting of ectodermal derivatives. They are relatively rare conditions with associated with the stigmata of spinal dysraphism with possible devastating consequences. We present a case series, in which we study the clinical, radiological and surgical aspects and follow up of the tumour in the last one year. All patients presented with either para or tetraplegia with or without sensory involvement. Contrast MRI was done in all cases, of which 3 were intradural extramedullary lesions and one was intramedullary lesion. The age ranged from 1 year to 4 years. 2 cases were associated with tethering of cord, 2 cases with dermal sinus and another with dandy walker malformation. One case had infected discharging sinus with dermoid. Gross total excision of tumour was done in all cases with Neuro monitoring. All had good post operative outcome without worsening of deficits. All patients received rehabilitation. Follow up study ranged from 3 months to 11 months. No residual tumour noted in follow up MRI.

Keywords

dermoid, epidermoid, spine, paediatric, intramedullary, intradural extramedullary, sinus tract