Presentation of a double myelomeningocele in the upper thoracic and thoracolumbar spine: A case report

BACKGROUND: Double myelomeningocele are rare pathologies, with multiple cases described in developing countries. Causative factors are multifactorial, with folate deficiency as a leading associated factor. We describe a case of double myelomeningocele in the upper thoracic and thoracolumbar spine associated with split cord malformation, with emphasis on imaging appearance of this case. CASE DESCRIPTION: This is a full-term newborn baby boy delivered through a cesarean section due to an antenatal diagnosis of multiple myelomeningoceles in the upper thoracic and thoracolumbar spine. The baby was operated 24 h after delivery to repair the defects and insert a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt for associated hydrocephalus. The baby tolerated the operation well and is being followed and managed by a multi-disciplinary team. CONCLUSION: Antenatal screening for myelomeningocele is paramount for prompt management. Multiple myelomeningoceles are uncommon, yet their management remains similar to single myelomeningocele.