Thoracic cord compression due to gout: a case report and literature review

An 82-year-old man developed progressive weakness of both legs 1 month prior to admission. He reported no previous history of trauma. Spine radiography revealed marked thoracic and lumbar spondylosis. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine disclosed segmental stenosis with cord compression at T10-11 due to an extradural soft tissue lesion. Based on a diagnosis of thoracic spondylosis with cord compression, decompression laminectomy was performed. During the operation, fragile chalky-white material was noted over the epidural space, compressing the thoracic cord. The granular lesion was meticulously removed until the dura was identified and the cord was decompressed. Histologic examination of the surgical specimen revealed deposits of needle-like crystals that were consistent with monosodium urate, demonstrating that a gouty lesion of the thoracic spine had caused the cord compression. The patient had previously experienced several attacks of gouty arthritis of his feet. The postoperative serum uric acid concentration was 8.5 mg/dL. After surgery, he was treated with benzbromarone 100 mg per day. He was able to walk 3 months after the operation. A high index of suspicion of gouty involvement of the spine is necessary in patients with gout. Surgical decompression followed by regular administration of antigout drugs can provide satisfactory results.