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[Spinal cord anchored at S2 level: diagnosis difficulties and risks]
1Oddziału Neurologicznego Wojewódzkiego Szpitala Zespolonego w Toruniu.
Neurologia I Neurochirurgia Polska
|October 16, 2001
Summary
A 46-year-old female presented with sudden onset paraparesis due to disc prolapse, revealing spinal cord anchoring at the S2 level. This rare condition, associated with spina bifida and foot deformities, required advanced imaging and tailored management.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- A 46-year-old female experienced sudden bilateral flaccid-spastic paraparesis.
- Symptoms were attributed to intervertebral disc prolapse at L2-L3 and L3-L4 levels.
Observation:
- The patient had a history of congenital spinal deformity, including spina bifida in the lumbar segment and bilateral equinovarus deformity.
- A lumbar tap was contraindicated due to the congenital spinal anomaly.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed the spinal cord extending down to the S2 level, indicative of spinal cord anchoring.
Findings:
- The case highlights a rare instance of spinal cord anchoring at the S2 level.
- This was associated with significant neurological deficits and congenital spinal abnormalities.
- Diagnostic challenges were overcome by utilizing MRI in the presence of contraindications for lumbar puncture.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of advanced imaging in diagnosing complex spinal conditions.
- Understanding spinal cord anchoring is crucial for appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
- The findings contribute to the literature on spinal cord anomalies and their management.