Split cord malformation and meningomyelocele with situs inversus totalis in a child: A rare association

Abstract

Situs inversus (also called situs transversus) is a rare congenital condition in which the major visceral organs are reversed or mirrored from their normal positions. The association of spinal dyraphism with situs inversus totalis is rare and only few cases have been reported till date. The authors report an infant who presented with meningomyelocele, with split cord malformation type-1 and situs inversus totalis. It is hypothesized that defects of the midline and laterality defects (e.g., situs inversus) are etiologically related and determining genetic locus or implicating various chemical agents that are known to produce situs inversus independently, as the causative factor for spinal dysraphism would further enhance our understanding about the pathogenesis of the above conditions and hence help in better management. A thorough physical examination supplemented by imaging studies of the entire neuraxis with a high index of suspicion for associated developmental abnormalities in a patient with congenital spinal abnormality is necessary.