Fetal diastematomyelia associated with vertebral malformation: ultrasound, MRI, and pathomorphological findings

Using a specific clinical example, we demonstrate the ability of prenatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to diagnose associated spine and spinal cord malformations in the group of spinal dysraphisms. Thus, the original ultrasound (US) and MRI results for the affected fetus at week 21 are illustrated and described in detail. The paucity of reports of prenatal MR-semiotic findings of split cord malformation comparing US and pathomorphological findings at a relatively early gestational age makes the present case unique and instructive. The outstanding capability of MRI to diagnose spinal pathologies indicates the necessity of including prenatal MRI in the diagnostic algorithm to determine the severity of the lesions and the appropriate management during pregnancy, childbirth, and the early postnatal period.