title: Neural tube dysraphism: review of cutaneous markers and imaging.
abstract: Neural tube dysraphisms are congenital anomalies resulting from impaired formation of structures along the craniospinal axis during central nervous system development. When these malformations are large or lack a skin covering, they are easily recognized, whereas smaller or skin-covered malformations may not be readily apparent. Due to the intimate embryologic origin of the skin and nervous system, these occult malformations are often heralded by associated cutaneous abnormalities. In this article, the common clinical presentations and cutaneous markers of craniospinal dysraphism are reviewed, along with the recommended imaging modalities.
authors.affiliation: Department of Dermatology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia.
authors.forename: Matthew J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Sewell
authors.forename: Yvonne E
authors.initials: YE
authors.lastname: Chiu
authors.forename: Beth A
authors.initials: BA
authors.lastname: Drolet
mesh_terms: D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D003884:Dermoid Cyst / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology; D004677:Encephalocele / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008588:Meningocele / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology; D054259:Neural Tube / Q000196:embryology*; D009436:Neural Tube Defects / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology; D015995:Prevalence; D011379:Prognosis; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012868:Skin Abnormalities / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology; D016135:Spinal Dysraphism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology
chemical_list: D015415:Biomarkers