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Brown tumor in secondary hyperparathyroidism causing acute paraplegia
The American Journal of Medicine
|September 1, 1986
Summary
A rare case of secondary hyperparathyroidism causing paraplegia due to a brown tumor is presented. Prompt treatment involving corticosteroids or surgery significantly improved the patient's neurologic symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a common complication in patients with chronic renal failure.
- Brown tumors are benign bone lesions that can occur in hyperparathyroidism.
Observation:
- A 69-year-old woman with chronic renal failure developed paraplegia.
- Myelography and CT revealed a spinal mass consistent with a brown tumor.
- The patient presented with back pain and progressive lower extremity weakness.
Findings:
- Biopsy confirmed the spinal mass as a brown tumor.
- Neurologic deficits were attributed to the brown tumor compressing the spinal cord.
- The patient experienced significant recovery after treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights a rare but treatable cause of paraplegia in chronic renal failure patients.
- Early recognition and intervention for brown tumors associated with secondary hyperparathyroidism are crucial for favorable outcomes.
- Multidisciplinary management involving nephrologists, neurologists, and surgeons is recommended.