Non-traumatic Hematomyelia: A Rare Finding in Clinical Practice.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Non-traumatic haematomyelia is a rare condition characterized by acute spinal cord bleeding.
• Common causes include arteriovenous malformations (AVM), tumors, coagulation disorders, autoimmune conditions, anticoagulants, and radiotherapy.
• Spinal AVMs, though uncommon, represent a significant cause of non-traumatic haematomyelia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of non-traumatic haematomyelia secondary to spinal arteriovenous malformation (AVM).
• To highlight the diagnostic process and successful treatment of spinal AVM.

Main Methods:

• A 58-year-old female patient presented with acute cervical pain and neurological deficits.
• Cervico-dorsal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and angiography were performed for diagnosis.
• Treatment involved embolization to isolate the identified AVM.

Main Results:

• Diagnosis confirmed AVM at the C7 and D1 spinal levels.
• Embolization resulted in the immediate isolation of the AVM.
• The case demonstrates a successful intervention for a rare neurological condition.

Conclusions:

• Central nervous system lesions, including subarachnoid hemorrhage, can occur in the spine.
• Non-traumatic haematomyelia, while rare, necessitates prompt diagnosis and management.
• Spinal AVMs are a treatable cause of non-traumatic haematomyelia, with embolization being an effective therapeutic option.