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Thoracic venous congestion caused by thoracic disc herniation
Eric P Roger1, Andrea J Chamczuk, Marygrace C Hagan
1Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, State University of New York Buffalo, New York.
Brain and Behavior
|June 21, 2013
Summary
This study reports the first case of thoracic disc herniation causing venous congestive myelopathy (VCM), mimicking Foix-Alajouanine syndrome. It reviews VCM causes and surgical indications.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Spinal Cord Imaging
Background:
- Venous congestive myelopathy (VCM) is a rare spinal cord condition.
- Foix-Alajouanine syndrome is an angiodysgenetic necrotizing myelopathy.
- Thoracic disc herniation is an uncommon cause of spinal cord compression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first case of thoracic disc herniation causing VCM.
- To compare clinical and radiographic findings with Foix-Alajouanine syndrome.
- To review VCM etiology and surgical management.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a patient with thoracic disc herniation.
- Clinical and radiological evaluation including MRI.
- Literature review of VCM and related conditions.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with symptoms suggestive of Foix-Alajouanine syndrome.
- Thoracic disc herniation was identified as the cause of VCM.
- Differential diagnosis and treatment options were considered.
Conclusions:
- Thoracic disc herniation can present as VCM.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention may be crucial for VCM management.
- Further research is needed to understand the pathophysiology of VCM secondary to disc herniation.
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