Multimodality imaging of anterior sacral meningocele with tethered cord and neurogenic bladder: A case report

Abstract

A dural sac herniation through an anterior sacral defect is the hallmark of anterior sacral meningocele (ASM), a rare congenital form of spinal dysraphism that frequently manifests clinically as an abdominal or pelvic mass. Constipation, urinary disturbances, obstetric difficulties, headaches, or changes in lower limb sensation are the most common symptoms that arise from a mass effect on nearby pelvic structures. Less than 300 cases have been documented; they are clearly more common in women, typically manifest in late childhood or early adulthood, and are often linked to connective-tissue diseases, especially Marfan syndrome. In rare cases, a tethered cord may be present. MRI is the preferred modality to diagnose anterior sacral meningocele . Surgery is the recommended treatment for symptomatic or growing anterior sacral meningoceles We present rare case report of a young female with anterior sacral meningocele, tethered cord and neurogenic bladder to highlight its imaging features, clinical implications, and diagnostic challenges.