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Acute cauda equina compression revealing Hodgkin's disease: a case report
Laurent Riffaud1, Mahmoudreza Adn, Gilles Brassier
1Department of Neurosurgery, Pontchaillou Hospital, Rennes, France. laurent.riffaud@chu-rennes.fr
Spine
|July 17, 2003
Summary
This case report highlights a rare instance of Stage IV Hodgkin's disease presenting as cauda equina compression. Prompt surgical decompression rapidly restored neurological function in a young patient.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Hodgkin's disease can involve the spine, typically in advanced stages.
- Spinal manifestation as an initial presentation of Hodgkin's disease is uncommon.
- Surgical decompression offers rapid relief for neurologic compromise.
Observation:
- A 14-year-old patient presented with acute cauda equina compression.
- Symptoms included back pain, lower limb numbness, sensory deficits, and urinary retention.
- MRI revealed epidural tumor compressing the cauda equina.
Findings:
- Stage IV Hodgkin's disease was diagnosed following emergency surgical decompression.
- The patient experienced rapid recovery of neurological function post-surgery.
- Treatment included chemotherapy and radiotherapy after initial decompression.
Implications:
- Highlights the possibility of Hodgkin's disease presenting as spinal epidural compression.
- Emphasizes the critical role of emergency surgery in managing acute cauda equina syndrome.
- Underscores the importance of considering malignancy in spinal emergencies.