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Cervical subarachnoid hematoma of unknown origin: case report
A Romano1, M Marsella, N Swamy
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267-0515, USA.
Acta Neurochirurgica
|November 7, 1999
Summary
This case report details a rare spontaneous cervical spinal subarachnoid hematoma in a man with hypertension and cervical spondylotic myelopathy. The condition, potentially linked to spinal cord compression, proved fatal despite surgical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Spontaneous spinal subarachnoid hematoma is an exceptionally rare condition.
- Only seven previous cases have been documented in English literature.
Observation:
- A 43-year-old male presented with acute quadriparesis, sensory loss, and urinary retention.
- Cervical spondylotic myelopathy and hypertension were noted in his medical history.
- Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a significant hemorrhage in the cervical spinal canal.
Findings:
- Surgical removal of the C4-C5 subarachnoid hematoma was performed.
- Post-operative complications included respiratory distress and uncontrollable hypotension, leading to the patient's death.
- Autopsy and extensive investigations ruled out vascular malformations, tumors, or other bleeding sources.
Implications:
- The study suggests chronic spinal cord compression (spondylotic myelopathy) and arterial hypertension may contribute to the pathogenesis of spontaneous spinal subarachnoid hematoma.
- This case highlights the critical need to consider these factors in diagnosing and managing rare spinal hemorrhages.