Spontaneous Spinal Epidural Hematoma Secondary to Rivaroxaban Use in a Patient With Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation

A spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma (SSEH) is a rare condition of intraspinal bleeding in the epidural space. It is often associated with disorders of anticoagulation, intraspinal tumors, vascular malformations, and pertinent to this case, anticoagulation therapy. This surgical emergency requires early diagnosis and management in order to minimize permanent neurologic deficits. We report the case of a 72-year-old female with a past medical history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation treated with rivaroxaban who presented to the emergency department with acute-onset, midline, lower back pain with no known trauma or injury to the area. At the time of emergency department (ED) admission, the patient was fully ambulatory and alert and oriented. However, within hours, she developed bilateral lower extremity motor paralysis and diminished sensation with urinary and bowel incontinence. SSEHs are rare, progressive neurologic emergencies that can present with non-specific lower back pain. This condition presents a diagnostic challenge that can result in permanent neurologic defects if not recognized early. Emergency physicians regularly encounter patients with both acute lower back pain and atrial fibrillation. This case can contribute to the possibility of SSEH to a differential diagnosis.