What is an intrathoracic meningocele?
An intrathoracic meningocele is an anomalous herniation of leptomeninges through an intervertebral foramen or a defect in the vertebral body, commonly associated with NF-I. On imaging, one sees a well-circumscribed, smooth, lobulated or round paraspinal cystic lesion with enlargement of the intervertebral foramen or associated vertebral and rib anomalies or scoliosis. Diagnosis is confirmed by filling of the lesion with intraspinal contrast material on CT or fluoroscopy.