Question
My son is 5 years old and has recently been experiencing symptoms of frequent urination and small amounts of urine. Examination revealed phimosis and a hidden spinal cord defect. I would like to know the cause and treatment methods.
Answer
Spinal cord defects are classified into overt and hidden spinal cord defects, with the primary cause being spinal cord tethering. Overt spinal cord defects often accompany spinal cord tethering, while hidden spinal cord defects occur in some individuals. Common symptoms such as bedwetting in children at night can be due to spinal cord tethering syndrome, in addition to physiological factors. Spinal cord tethering is not uncommon, but there is a lack of awareness among parents and doctors, leading to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment. It is recommended that parents consult with a neurosurgical specialist.