OCCULT SPINA BIFIDA
\əkˈʌlt spˈiːnə ba͡ɪfˈɪdə], \əkˈʌlt spˈiːnə baɪfˈɪdə], \ə_k_ˈʌ_l_t s_p_ˈiː_n_ə b_aɪ_f_ˈɪ_d_ə]\
Sort: Oldest first
-
A common congenital midline defect of fusion of the vertebral arch without protrusion of the spinal cord or meninges. The lesion is also covered by skin. L5 and S1 are the most common vertebrae involved. The condition may be associated with an overlying area of hyperpigmented skin, a dermal sinus, or an abnormal patch of hair. The majority of individuals with this malformation are asymptomatic although there is an increased incidence of tethered cord syndrome and lumbar SPONDYLOSIS. (From Joynt, Clinical Neurology, 1992, Ch55, p34)
By DataStellar Co., Ltd
Word of the day
Snake's-head
- Guinea-hen flower; -- so called in England because its spotted petals resemble the scales of a snake's head.