ImagesEdit
This is a gross photograph of the fetus at autopsy. Note the defect in the lower lumbar region of the spinal column (arrow). The myelomeningocele can be seen protruding from this defect.
This gross photograph shows consecutive lumbar vertebra from this case. Note the defect (arrows) in the two vertebral bodies on the right. This defect was caused by failure of the vertebral column to properly close.
This is a closer view of the previous gross photograph showing a normal lumbar vertebra from this case on the left. Once again, note the defect (arrow) in the vertebral body on the right due to failure of the vertebral column to close properly.
This is a low-power photomicrograph of one of the vertebral bodies from this case. In this section there are defects (arrows) in the vertebral body but the skin can be seen over the open vertebral canal.
This is a higher-power photomicrograph of one of the vertebral bodies from this case. The defect (arrows) in the vertebral body is seen more clearly. The spinal cord is disrupted and there are areas of hemorrhage in this region.
This is a high-power photomicrograph of the spinal cord (arrow) immediately beneath the area of hemorrhage.
This high-power photomicrograph of the spinal cord within the vertebral column shows the hemorrhage (arrows) in this region.
A myelomeningocele is the herniation of the spinal cord--within the meninges--through a defect in the vertebral canal.