Spinal cord compression due to cystic duplication of the primitive digestive tract.

Three children are described who presented with the syndrome of spinal cord compression. They had intradural-extramedullary masses, which proved to be histologically benign cysts with characteristics similar to those found in the embryonic foregut. Emphasis is placed on the importance of early diagnosis and prompt surgical treatment of these congenital malformations, stressing the fact that complete recovery is possible. The literature is reviewed.