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Atypical intradural spinal tuberculosis: report of three cases
T Tanriverdi1, O Kizilkiliç, M Hanci
1Department of Neurosurgery, Cerrahpaşa Medical Faculty, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.
Spinal Cord
|June 20, 2003
Summary
Atypical spinal tuberculosis (TB) can present as intradural lesions, including abscesses and arachnoiditis. Early suspicion and diagnosis are crucial for favorable outcomes in spinal TB cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Radiology
Background:
- Spinal tuberculosis (TB) is a rare infectious disease.
- Atypical presentations of spinal TB can mimic other intraspinal pathologies.
Observation:
- Three cases of intradural spinal TB were reviewed.
- Presentations included intramedullary abscess and arachnoiditis.
Findings:
- The intramedullary abscess case had a satisfactory outcome with medical and surgical treatment.
- Arachnoiditis cases had less favorable outcomes with shunting or decompression.
- Histopathological, radiological, and surgical findings were used for diagnosis.
Implications:
- A high index of suspicion is necessary to avoid misdiagnosis of spinal TB as neoplasm.
- Tuberculous abscesses and granulomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intraspinal mass lesions.