SPINAL SUBDURAL HEMATOMA ASSOCIATED WITH LUMBAR PUNCTURE - A CASE REPORT

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Radiology

Background:

• Lumbar puncture is a common diagnostic procedure.
• Spinal subdural hematoma (SSH) is a rare complication of lumbar puncture.
• SSH can cause neurological deficits due to spinal cord compression.

Observation:

• A 36-year-old female presented with persistent headache, leading to a diagnostic lumbar puncture.
• Post-procedure, she developed lumbar pain, and MRI revealed an acute subdural hematoma (7.3 mm) in the lumbosacral region.
• The hematoma remained unchanged on repeat MRI after 3 hours.

Findings:

• The patient's lumbar pain gradually improved with conservative management.
• Patients with blood clotting disorders or on anticoagulation may have poorer outcomes.
• Close clinical monitoring is essential for managing spinal subdural hematoma.

Implications:

• This case underscores the potential for rare complications following lumbar puncture.
• Conservative management can be effective for spinal subdural hematoma in select cases.
• Early recognition and monitoring are crucial, with surgical intervention considered if necessary.