Dural Ectasia
Dural ectasia is a radiological finding characterised by enlargement of the dura in the spinal cord, especially in the lower lumbosacral regions. The connective tissue weakness in the underlying condition is thought to lead to expansion of the dura from the pulsatile flow of the cerebrospinal fluid. The lower regions are affected because that is where subarachnoid pressure is highest. Dural ectasia can result in bony erosions and/or meningoceles associated with constipation and/or incontinence. It is also associated with back pain and lumbar radicular pain.
The cardinal condition is Marfan Syndrome where it is present in 60% of individuals. However it can also be seen in neurofibromatosis, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and ankylosing spondylitis.
