Malformations - Tethered Spinal Cord Syndrome

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Tethered Spinal Cord Syndrome
Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. www.ninds.nih.gov
Tethered spinal cord syndrome is a neurological disorder caused by tissue attachments that limit the movement of the spinal cord within the spinal column. These attachments cause an abnormal stretching of the spinal cord. The course of the disorder is progressive.
Tethered spinal cord syndrome appears to be the result of improper growth of the neural tube during fetal development, and is closely linked to spina bifida. Tethering may also develop after spinal cord injury and scar tissue can block the flow of fluids around the spinal cord. Fluid pressure may cause cysts to form in the spinal cord, a condition called syringomyelia. This can lead to additional loss of movement, feeling or the onset of pain or autonomic symptoms.
In children, symptoms may include:
lesions, hairy patches, dimples, or fatty tumors on the lower back
foot and spinal deformities
weakness in the legs; low back pain
scoliosis
incontinence
Tethered spinal cord syndrome may go undiagnosed until adulthood, when sensory and motor problems and loss of bowel and bladder control emerge. This delayed presentation of symptoms is related to the degree of strain placed on the spinal cord over time.
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