Radiological Features of Extramedullary Hematopoiesis in a Young Male With Beta-Thalassemia: A Case Report.

The formation of the blood elements and their maturation is called hematopoiesis. In adults, this typically takes place in the bone marrow of vertebrae, ribs, and long bones. In contrast, during fetal development, the primary sites of hematopoiesis are the spleen, liver, and the yolk sac. This process of hematopoiesis, when it occurs in sites other than the bone marrow, is called the extramedullary hematopoiesis (EMH). Extramedullary hematopoiesis usually happens in patients with blood disorders like sickle cell disease and thalassemia, where there is failure of hematopoiesis in the primary sites. Here, we present a young male with beta-thalassemia who presented with shortness of breath and palpitations for one month. This manuscript discusses the imaging findings of the EMH in our patient.

A Rare Co-occurrence of Lumbo-Costo-Vertebral Syndrome With Congenital Lumbar Hernia in a Six-Year-Old Child.

Lumbo-costo-vertebral syndrome (LCVS) is a very rare congenital disorder seen in children. It is characterized by a congenital absence of ribs, vertebral anomalies, scoliosis, meningocele, and hypoplastic abdominal wall muscles presenting as abdominal wall hernia. We present a case of a six-year-old Indian female who came with complaints of swelling in the left lumbar region since birth, which was evident in coughing and scoliosis. On auscultation, bowel sounds were heard over the swelling. Physical examination revealed a left lumbar hernia and scoliosis. Abdominal X-rays revealed the absence of the 12th rib on the left side and vertebral anomalies with kyphoscoliosis. Abdominal ultrasonography (USG) showed a left lumbar hernia with bowel loops as its content. Computed tomography (CT) was done, which confirmed the X-ray and USG findings. Based on clinical and radiological findings, a diagnosis of LCVS associated with congenital lumbar hernia (CLH) was made. The patient was then referred to the surgery department for further management. This case illustrates a unique link between two extremely rare conditions and emphasizes the necessity of thorough clinical and radiological evaluation in suspected patients for early diagnosis and treatment.