Review Question - QID 1002

The radiograph demonstrates congenital scoliosis with defects in formation (resulting in the hemivertebrae) and segmentation.

Basu et al assessed the incidence of intraspinal anomalies and other organic defects associated with different types of congenital spinal deformity using MRI, echocardiography, renal ultrasound, and a thorough clinical assessment. Intraspinal abnormalities were found in 37% of patients - more commonly in those with congenital kyphosis and scoliosis resulting from mixed and segmentation defects. Cardiac defects were detected in 26% and urogenital anomalies in 21% of patients. Based on their finding, they argue magnetic resonance imaging and echocardiography should be an essential part in the evaluation of patients with congenital spinal deformity. Renal ultrasound should be considered, although a complete spine MRI may detect renal pathology as well.