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Diffuse arachnoid ossification and multiple arachnoid cysts presenting with progressive thoracic myelopathy.
Toshinori Sakai1, Koichi Sairyo, Masahiro Kashima
1Department of Orthopedics, Institute of Health Biosciences, The University of Tokushima Graduate School, 3-18-15 Kuramoto-cho, Tokushima, 770-8503, Japan. norinori@clin.med.tokushima-u.ac.jp
Skeletal Radiology
|December 5, 2009
Summary
Rare spinal cord compression caused by ossified arachnoid membrane and cysts is presented. Surgical removal prevented further deterioration but did not significantly improve existing neurological symptoms in this case study.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal cord pathology
Background:
- Spinal cord compression can arise from various pathologies.
- Ossification of the arachnoid membrane with cystic changes is an exceptionally rare cause.
Observation:
- A 60-year-old male presented with symptoms attributed to spinal cord compression.
- Imaging revealed diffuse ossification of the arachnoid membrane and multiple arachnoid cysts in the thoracic and lumbar spine.
Findings:
- Surgical excision of the ossified arachnoid membrane and arachnoid cysts was performed.
- The procedure halted progressive neurological decline.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare etiology of spinal cord compression.
- Early surgical intervention may prevent further neurological damage, though recovery of pre-existing deficits remains challenging.
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