- SCM type 1 consists of two hemicords, each with its own dural sheath, separated by a bony or cartilaginous septum.
- SCM type 2 consists of two hemicords within the same dural sheath but separated by a fibrous septum.
Diastematomyelia in Child
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Synopsis

Diastematomyelia, split-cord malformation (SCM), is a rare congenital abnormality in which there is partial or complete cleft in the spinal cord by a sagittal osseous or fibrous septum. It is seen predominantly in females, most often affecting the lower thoracic or upper lumbar segments. Clinically, diastematomyelia often presents as tethered cord syndrome (back pain, abnormal gait, spasticity, bowel / bladder incontinence) in children or young adults, although symptom onset may occur at any age. Patients may have a midline cutaneous abnormality such as a hairy patch or dimple over the affected area. There are two classifications:
Codes
ICD10CM:
Q06.2 – Diastematomyelia
SNOMEDCT:
445308004 – Split spinal cord malformation
Q06.2 – Diastematomyelia
SNOMEDCT:
445308004 – Split spinal cord malformation
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Diplomyelia – Duplication of the spinal cord, which can be distinguished from diastematomyelia by the presence of two central canals, each surrounded by gray and white matter.
- Spina bifida occulta
- Meningocele
- Myelomeningocele
- Tethered cord
- Cauda equina syndrome
- Conus medullaris syndrome
- Lumbosacral radiculopathy
- Spinal cord infarction
- Spinal cord hemorrhage (see spinal cord compression)
- Spinal cord tumor (see spinal cord compression)
- Spinal cord lipoma
- Inflammatory spinal cord lesion (eg, transverse myelitis)
- Spinal cord infection
- Spinal cord abscess (paraspinal, epidural)
- Syringomyelia
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Therapy
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References
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Last Reviewed:08/07/2018
Last Updated:04/26/2023
Last Updated:04/26/2023