Related Experiment Videos
[Spinal and extra-spinal tumors mimicking discal herniation]
E Tamir1, Y Mirovsky, D Robinson
1Orthopedics Dept., Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin.
Harefuah
|August 26, 2000
Summary
Spinal tumors can mimic lumbar disc herniation, causing delayed diagnosis and treatment for radiating leg pain. Consider tumors in patients with cancer history, night pain, or weight loss.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Low back pain radiating to a limb is commonly attributed to lumbar disc herniation.
- Spinal cord or plexus tumors can present with similar symptoms, leading to misdiagnosis.
Observation:
- Four male patients presented with low back pain radiating to the leg due to tumors.
- Tumors included metastatic lung cancer, vertebral aneurysmal bone cyst, and two retroperitoneal sarcomas.
- Diagnosis was delayed as symptoms were initially attributed to lumbar disc herniation.
Findings:
- Computed tomography (CT) scans can show findings similar to disc herniation in asymptomatic individuals.
- Tumor-related radiating leg pain may present with a history of cancer, nocturnal pain, or weight loss.
- Nerve root involvement on physical examination warrants further investigation.
Implications:
- The differential diagnosis for radiating leg pain must include spinal tumors.
- Early recognition of red flags for malignancy is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Advanced imaging and electrodiagnostic studies are essential when suspecting tumors.