Meningocoele

Meningocoele may be a manifestation of neurofibromatosis. Frequently the lesions are multiple, and often they are asymptomatic. On radiographs their differentiation from neurofibromas is difficult, as both lesions appear as focal posterior paravertebral masses that protrude laterally from enlarged neural foramina. Neurofibromas may be characterized by presence of eccentric, unilateral spinal column scalloping, whereas central scalloping is thought to be more frequent with meningocoele. A dumbbell or hourglass shape is typical of a meningocoele, although paraspinal neuromas may also have this appearance. CT scanning combined with metrizamide myelography, ultrasonography and MR imaging may also be helpful in diagnosis. Also, see meningocele.

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