J Korean Radiol Soc.
1997 Dec;37(6):1127-1133.
MR Imaging of the Currarino Triad
- Affiliations
-
- 1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Chung-Ang Gil Medical Center.
- 2Department of Radiology, Seoul National University, College of Medicine.
- 3Department of Radiology, Keimyung University School of Medicine, Dongsan Medical Center.
- 4Department of General Surgery, Chung-Ang Gil Medical Center.
Abstract
- PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to describe the MR findings of the spectrum of the Currarino triad and to discuss the potential role of MR imaging in evaluating these anomalies.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Seven children (age range: 2-12 months) with Currarino triad were evaluated using MR imaging, plain radiography, and barium study. In addition, CT scans (n=3) and sonography (n=2) were performed. We retrospectively analyzed MR imaging findings and correlated these with the findings of other imaging modalities.
RESULTS
Anorectal anomalies included anorectal stenosis in five patients and an imperforate anus in two. MR imaging findings of anorectal stenosis included an elongated thick-walled anorectal canal and dilatation of the proximal segment of the rectum. In the patients with an imperforate anus, the location of the blind rectal pouch and sphincteric musculature was delineated. In one case, a transcolostomy enema revealed a fistula not evident on MR images. Presacral masses included four teratomas and three lipomas associated with various spinal anomalies. On MR imaging, which gave better results than CT or sonography, a detailed evaluation of presacral masses and associated anomalies was possible. Sacral anomalies included a typical scimitar-shaped sacral defect in five patients, abnormal curvature in one, and malsegmentation in one. In all cases, MR imaging showed the abnormal sacrum, but plain radiography more clearly demonstrated its anomalous shape.
CONCLUSION
Various anorectal anomalies, presacral masses, and other associated anomalies were demonstrated by MR imaging. When the Currarino triad is suspected, MR imaging should therefore follow plain radiographs.
