A case of epidural hematoma due to spinal hemangioma triggered by minor vertebral fracture

Abstract

SECONDARY ABSTRACT: It is well-known that spinal epidural hematoma is a rare disease; however, the possibility of this disease should be considered for patients with acute paralysis or paresthesia as the neurological outcome can be improved by rapid diagnosis and treatment. Vertebral hemangioma is the most common type of benign vertebral tumor. There have been only a few reports of spinal epidural hematoma occurring from vertebral hemangioma triggered by minor vertebral fracture.
CASE: A 77-year-old woman developed acute onset of back pain and paralysis in the left leg. Neurological examination showed middle back pain (Numerical Rating Scale: 5/10), paralysis in the left leg (Manual Muscle Testing: MMT 1/5) and paresthesia on the left side under the chest. MRI showed a spinal epidural hematoma at C7-Th3 spinal level and the fracture of vertebral hemangioma at C7. She was diagnosed with spinal epidural hematoma that occurred from vertebral hemangioma triggered by minor vertebral fracture. Laminectomy and removal of the hematoma were immediately performed. Neurological symptoms completely recovered after the surgery.