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Published on: March 1, 2024
Phantom limb pain from spinal sarcoma: a case report
Ernesto Cruz1, Harsh T Dangaria
1Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Temple University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
Summary
New-onset phantom limb pain in amputees can stem from spinal tumors. Surgical removal of a metastatic spinal mass resolved severe phantom limb pain in one patient, highlighting a crucial diagnostic consideration.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Phantom limb pain (PLP) is a common complication following amputation.
- Residual limb pain and back pain are also prevalent in amputees.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old patient with a history of sarcoma and hip disarticulation developed new-onset severe phantom limb pain.
- Imaging revealed a metastatic spinal mass involving the L3 vertebra, causing thecal sac compression and lateral recess stenosis.
Findings:
- Surgical resection of the metastatic spinal mass led to complete resolution of the patient's phantom limb pain.
- This case suggests a direct link between spinal metastatic pathology and phantom limb pain.
Implications:
- Spinal metastatic disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis for new or altered phantom limb pain in amputees.
- This finding may prompt earlier diagnosis and intervention for spinal pathologies presenting with neuropathic pain symptoms.
