J Korean Radiol Soc.  2003 Apr;48(4):345-352. 10.3348/jkrs.2003.48.4.345.

Congenital Anomalies of the Spine: Radiologic Findings

• Ryu JK
• Kim SW
• Ryu KN

• KMID: 2103732
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3348/jkrs.2003.48.4.345

Abstract

Congenital anomalies of the spine are frequent and variable. Some are restricted to skeletal structures, while others involve combined neural tube defects or are associated with other multi-systemic disorders. Structural spinal anomalies can be classified according to their location: 1) the vertebral body, 2) the articular process, 3) the lamina with spinous process, 4) the pars interarticularis, 5) the facet joint, 6) the pedicle, or 7) other. Because of similarities between these congenital anomalies and (a) secondary changes involving infection or joint disease and (b) deformities resulting from trauma and uncertain tumorous conditions, significant confusion can occur during diagnosis. Moreover, since the anomalies often give rise to both functional impairment and cosmetic problems, appropriate treatment relies crucially on accurate diagnosis. The authors illustrate the pathogenesis and radiologic findings of the relatively common spinal anomalies confined to skeletal structures.

Keyword

Spine, anomalies; Spine, radiography; Spine, MR

MeSH Terms

Congenital Abnormalities
Diagnosis
Joint Diseases
Neural Tube Defects
Spine*
Zygapophyseal Joint