Neurenteric Cyst of the Intradural Extramedullary Region of the Cervical Spine: A Case Report

Introduction: Neurenteric cysts (NCs), also known as endodermal cysts, are rare congenital lesions of endodermal origin. They were thought to originate from a failure of dissolution of the neurenteric canal between the notochord and endoderm during the third week of embryogenesis. The primary clinical symptoms differ from focal pain to paresthesia and weakness based on the cyst's location. Here we present a case of intradural extramedullary NC of the spine at the cervical level. Case presentation: A 10-year-old boy presented with neck pain and weakness in his left hand. Imaging studies revealed fusion of cervical vertebrae at the levels of C3-C4 and C5-C6. On MRI, a cystic lesion in the intradural extramedullary region compressing the cord was evident. Surgical total resection, as the preferred treatment option, was done through the posterior approach, and the definitive diagnosis was made based on the histochemical analysis. Conclusion NC is a rare lesion and should be kept in mind as a differential diagnosis. Surgical intervention, particularly total resection, commonly improves the sensory and motor deficits associated with NC and is the treatment of choice.