What is the prevalence of Lipomyelomeningocele?
How many people does Lipomyelomeningocele affect? Does it have the same prevalence in men and women? And in the different countries?
Lipomyelomeningocele is a relatively rare congenital spinal cord malformation characterized by a fatty mass attached to the spinal cord. It is estimated to occur in approximately 1 in every 4,000 live births. This condition is more commonly found in females than males. Lipomyelomeningocele is often associated with other spinal abnormalities and can lead to various neurological complications. Early diagnosis and appropriate medical intervention are crucial for managing this condition and preventing potential complications.
Lipomyelomeningocele is a relatively rare congenital spinal cord malformation characterized by the presence of a fatty mass or lipoma attached to the spinal cord. It is considered a type of spina bifida, a neural tube defect that occurs during fetal development. The exact prevalence of lipomyelomeningocele is not well-established, but it is estimated to occur in approximately 1 to 3 per 10,000 live births.
Although lipomyelomeningocele is relatively uncommon, it is important to note that it can cause significant neurological complications if left untreated. The condition often leads to tethered spinal cord syndrome, where the spinal cord is abnormally stretched and fixed in place, potentially resulting in various symptoms such as lower limb weakness, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and orthopedic abnormalities.
Early diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention are crucial in managing lipomyelomeningocele to prevent further neurological deterioration and improve long-term outcomes. Regular follow-up and multidisciplinary care are typically recommended to address any associated complications and provide necessary support for affected individuals.
