Double meningomyelocele - a rare variant of neural tube defect: A case series

Abstract

Background: A neural tube defect is a common congenital malformation and it commonly presents as an isolated cystic swelling on the back, anywhere from occiput to sacrum. However, multiple neural tube defects are rare with less than 100 cases reported worldwide. Case Presentation: We are reporting two cases of multiple neural tube defects that presented in the newborn period with a history of concurrent swellings along the midline on the back. They were evaluated with ultrasonography and the diagnosis of double meningomyelocele was confirmed. Subsequently, they were operated on, both the lesions were excised, and the defects were repaired simultaneously. Conclusion: Double meningomyelocele is a rare form of neural tube defect. Due to its rarity, exact embryogenesis is not known and thus, there is a need for further study on its embryology.