Asian Spine J.  2013 Mar;7(1):50-54. 10.4184/asj.2013.7.1.50.

Ruptured Conus Medullaris Dermoid Cyst with Fat Droplets in the Central

• Sharma M
• Mally R
• Velho V

• KMID: 2270450
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4184/asj.2013.7.1.50

Abstract

Spinal dermoid tumors are rare, benign, slow growing tumors. These tumors may become acutely symptomatic after rupture or infection. Excision of the lesion with long term close follow-up studies is required for the management of these lesions. We present a very rare case of ruptured conus medullaris dermoid cyst in a 22-year-old male presented with urinary retention and low back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging scan with contrast reveals a lesion in the cauda equina inseparable from conus medullaris with fat droplets within the central spinal canal extending up to the medulla. Patient was operated with laminectomy and near complete excision of the lesion was done. Patient's low back pain was relieved following surgery. However patient had persistent urinary incontinence and on clean intermittent self-catheterization. Histopathology was suggestive of dermoid cyst.

Keyword

Ruptured; Spinal cord; Dermoid cyst

MeSH Terms

Cauda Equina
Conus Snail
Dermoid Cyst
Humans
Laminectomy
Low Back Pain
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Male
Rupture
Spinal Canal
Spinal Cord
Urinary Incontinence
Urinary Retention