Hereditary multiple exostoses. A rare cause of spinal cord compression

A case of hereditary multiple exostoses (HME) with compression of the cervical cord, the cervical plexus, and the ulnar nerve is reported. Complete recovery following surgery was obtianed. Review of the literature revealed 21 previous cases of HME with cord compression. The cervical and thoracic areas are predominantly affected and the symptoms usually evolve slowly. Recovery after laminectomy is to be expected in the majority of the cases.