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Updated: Jun 14, 2026
05:53
Intraoperative Ultrasound in Spinal Surgery
Published on: August 17, 2022
Unusual presentation of thoracic disc herniation
F Balagué1, H Fankhauser, A Rosazza
1Service de Rhumatologie, Hôpital Cantonal, Fribourg, Switzerland.
Clinical Rheumatology
|June 1, 1989
Summary
This case report details a young patient with thoracic disc herniation presenting as lumbar pain. Imaging revealed a T10-11 herniation, highlighting the varied clinical presentations of this spinal condition.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Spinal Surgery
Background:
- Thoracic disc herniations are rare, often presenting with atypical symptoms.
- Mimicking lumbar disc disease, thoracic herniations can delay diagnosis.
- Understanding differential diagnoses is crucial for effective patient management.
Observation:
- A 24-year-old patient experienced acute lumbar pain radiating to the buttock and abdomen.
- Symptoms were initially suggestive of lumbar disc disease.
- The patient's presentation underscored the challenge in diagnosing thoracic spinal pathologies.
Findings:
- Myelography and computed tomography confirmed a centrolateral noncalcified disc herniation at the T10-11 level.
- The herniation was noted in proximity to a Schmorl's node.
- Diagnostic imaging was key in identifying the thoracic origin of the patient's pain.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering thoracic disc herniation in patients with seemingly lumbar pain.
- Accurate diagnosis through advanced imaging is essential for appropriate treatment.
- Recognizing diverse clinical presentations can improve outcomes for thoracic disc herniation patients.
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