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An In Vivo Duo-color Method for Imaging Vascular Dynamics Following Contusive Spinal Cord Injury
Published on: December 31, 2017
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Spinal cord infarction. A case report and narrative review
Federica Pigna1, Silvia Lana2, Carlotta Bellini3
1Emergency Department, University Hospital of Parma. fpigna@ao.pr.it.
Acta Bio-Medica : Atenei Parmensis
|May 4, 2021
Summary
Spinal cord infarction, a rare vascular emergency, can cause sudden leg weakness and sensory loss. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for recovery, though full strength may not be restored.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Vascular Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Spinal cord infarction is a rare neurological vascular emergency, accounting for 1-2% of all such events.
- It is significantly less frequent than ischemic brain injury.
Observation:
- A 68-year-old man presented with sudden lower limb weakness, pain, and sensory loss after cycling.
- CT angiography revealed an infra-renal abdominal aortic aneurysm with thrombus.
- Spinal MRI showed acute ischemic injury from D11 to the medullary cone.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with spinal cord infarction secondary to aortic aneurysm complications.
- Treatment included anticoagulation (low molecular weight heparin), antiplatelet therapy (aspirin), and corticosteroids (methylprednisolone).
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering spinal cord infarction in patients with acute neurological deficits, especially after exertion.
- Emergency physicians must be aware of this rare but severe condition for timely diagnosis and management.
- While sensory function was restored, motor strength recovery was incomplete, emphasizing the potential for long-term disability.
