Recurrent meningoencephalitis and ascending myelitis caused by dermal sinus tract of extraordinary length.

The case of an infant with a dermal sinus tract, recurrent meningitis, ascending myelitis and a fatal outcome is described. The extraordinary extent of the cord affection with abscesses up to the level of the lower brainstem, and the presence of squamous epithelium within them, is difficult to explain on the basis of current concepts of the formation of dysraphic dermal sinus tracts. Morphogenetic, clinical and radiological aspects are discussed.