Which term describes a congenital herniation of the meninges through a skull or spinal defect?

• A. Encephalitis
• B. Meningocele
• C. Hypochondriasis
• D. Paresthesia

Answer: (B)

Meningocele is a congenital herniation of the meninges through a skull or spinal defect. The meninges are the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord, and in this condition they protrude through an opening in the bone, while the brain and spinal cord itself remain intact. If brain tissue also herniated, the condition would be called an encephalocele, not a meningocele.

Encephalitis is inflammation of brain tissue, typically from infection; hypochondriasis is a psychological condition involving excessive worry about health; paresthesia refers to abnormal sensations like tingling or numbness.