Diastematomyelia on imaging: Clinical and radiological considerations of this spinal abnormality

Abstract

Diastematomyelia, a rare congenital anomaly of the spine, is characterised by the division of the spinal cord and is often associated with other spinal and cutaneous malformations. Diagnosis is primarily conducted via prenatal ultrasound and fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The postnatal evaluation is carried out using Computed Tomography (CT) and MRI, which are essential for comprehensive assessment and therapeutic planning. Prognosis depends on the presence of neurological symptoms, whose severity may correlate with specific radiological findings. Treatment ranges from surgery in symptomatic cases to observation in asymptomatic patients. This article reviews diastematomyelia, providing illustrative images from postnatal CT and MRI to emphasize the importance of comprehensive evaluation in ensuring an accurate diagnosis that guides appropriate clinical management.